By Scout Nelson
Every living creature is constantly seeking food while avoiding predators. In agriculture, farmers deal with threats like weeds and fungi from planting to harvest. Ranchers work to protect their animals from predators and parasites.
One of the biggest pest threats to livestock is the New World Screwworm (NWS). This harmful fly lays larvae in open wounds, which then feed on the animal’s tissue. If left untreated, the infection can be fatal. NWS was once widespread in the United States but was successfully eradicated in 1966 through a program that released sterile flies to stop breeding.
“Vigilance is key to halting the most recent migration, and officials are working to reverse the course of NWS before it can reestablish in the United States.”
Though NWS is now mostly found in the Caribbean and South America, recent sightings in Central America and Mexico have raised concerns. Past outbreaks in Texas in 1976 and the Florida Keys in 2016 show the risk of it returning. Government efforts are underway to prevent another outbreak, which could cause nearly $2 billion in losses.
The return of NWS reminds us how much effort goes into livestock care. While it may seem like cattle only roam pastures, ranchers perform daily tasks such as checking water and minerals, monitoring fences, and rotating pastures.
“When I was growing up, moving cattle to a new pasture always involved a stop at the pens to spray the cattle with a mild insecticide to combat flies, ticks and other biting insects.”
These moments allow close observation for any signs of illness. Early detection helps solve problems before they spread. Animals showing signs of sickness are separated for treatment.
“Screwworms are still a threat, but through care and vigilance they were spotted early, and mitigation measures are underway to protect all the herds in the United States.”
Photo Credit: kansas-livestock-foundation
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle