Flesh-Eating Screwworm Found on Texas Ranch Horse

San Antonio, TX, September 11, 2026 —

A case of the parasitic New World screwworm fly, known for its flesh-eating larvae, has been identified on a ranch horse in Texas. The discovery marks a concerning development for livestock health in the region.

The specific details regarding the exact location within Texas, the date of discovery, the identity of the ranch, or the condition of the affected horse were not immediately available. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is typically involved in monitoring and controlling screwworm outbreaks, but no further information about their involvement or the outcome for this specific animal has been provided in the initial report.

New World screwworms (Cochliomyia hominivorax) are native to the Americas. The larvae of the screwworm fly feed on living flesh and can cause significant tissue damage, leading to severe infections and potentially death if left untreated. This parasitic insect lays its eggs in the open wounds of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, pets, and wildlife. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the host’s flesh to feed.

Historically, the screwworm population was largely eradicated from the United States through a sterile insect technique program that released millions of sterile male flies, which mated with wild females, drastically reducing the reproductive capacity of the pest. However, reinfestations can occur through the introduction of infected animals from countries where the pest persists.

The presence of screwworm requires prompt reporting and action to prevent further spread and protect animal populations. The lack of public details regarding this Texas case leaves questions about the scope of the discovery and the specific containment measures being implemented.

Story summarized from the original created by Google News on news.google.com, see more information here.