We dive into the New World Screwworm, what it is, how we manage it and what it could do to the U.S. cattle industry. Plus we have the latest news, markets and so much more on this all new episode of The Ranch It Up Radio Show. . Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel.

Season 5, EPISODE 220

New World Screwworm: What Is It & What Could It Do To The Cattle Industry

Beware! New World Screwworm In Cattle

New World Screwworm: What you Need to Know

On November 22, 2024, the Chief Veterinary Officer of Mexico informed the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of a confirmed case of New World screwworm (NWS, Cochliomyia hominivorax). This alarming detection poses a serious threat to livestock and wildlife in North America. Here’s what you need to know about this devastating pest and its implications.

What Is New World Screwworm?

New World screwworm is a highly destructive pest that affects livestock, other warm-blooded animals, and occasionally humans. NWS larvae infest animals through open wounds or mucous membranes, feeding on living tissue rather than dead tissue or carrion. If left untreated, infestations can be fatal.

Key Facts About New World Screwworm:

NWS is endemic to Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and parts of South America.
It has been moving northward since 2023, spreading from Panama to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and now Mexico.

U.S. Measures to Prevent NWS Spread

To protect livestock and wildlife in the United States, APHIS is taking immediate action:

Import Restrictions:

Livestock imports, including equines, from Mexico are temporarily restricted.
Horses originating from or residing in Mexico within 60 days prior to export will need to comply with stringent import protocols.

Established Protocols:

Pre-export treatment and examination.
Treatment and examination upon arrival.
A 7-day quarantine in an approved permanent import facility.

These protocols follow the guidelines outlined in eCFR 9 CFR 93.308 and VSG 13424.1.

Why Awareness Matters

Illegally imported equines and stray animals crossing the border could introduce NWS into the United States. It is crucial for those handling livestock and pets to be vigilant.

Signs of Screwworm Infestation:

Draining or enlarging wounds.
Signs of discomfort such as head shaking or irritated behavior.
Presence of screwworm larvae (maggots) or eggs.

Screwworm eggs are creamy-white and often found near the edges of wounds. Infestations commonly occur in:

Navels of newborn animals.
Nasal or eye openings.
Genitalia and branding or dehorning wounds.

What to Do If You Suspect Screwworm

If you notice signs of infestation:

Immediately contact your local accredited veterinarian, state animal health official, or APHIS veterinarian.
Regularly inspect your pets and livestock, especially if they have wounds or show signs of discomfort.

Conclusion

The detection of New World screwworm in Mexico underscores the importance of vigilance in safeguarding livestock and wildlife. By adhering to import restrictions and monitoring animals closely, we can help prevent the spread of this devastating pest.

Cattle & Agriculture Industry News

Scientists Turn To AI To Reduce Cow Methane

Researchers are considering using generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) protocols in order to develop new solutions to reduce methane emissions from cows.

A team of scientists at USDA’s Agricultural Research Service Livestock Nutrient Management Research Unit and the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the Iowa State University are using AI to sift through large computational models to develop new approaches to managing the methane emissions.

The current focus involves the discovery of a group of compound molecules that can inhibit methane production in the largest of a cow’s four stomach compartments. One effective molecule has been proven to reduce enteric methane production by up to 98%.

AI also may fast-forward the laboratory research process and possibly address the potential costs of launching additional research, according to the scientists.

RanchChannel.Com Now Has The Futures Markets & New Listings

Futures Markets

RanchChannel.com now has futures markets at your fingertips! Feeder Cattle, Live Cattle, Corn, Wheat, Soybeans, Soybean Oil, Milk Class IV, and Ethanol. Information is provided by DTN and market information may be delayed by as much as 10 minutes. Click Here for more information!

UPCOMING SALES & EVENTS

Spruce Hill Ranch: February 6, 2025

Prairie Hills Gelbvieh: February 8, 2025

Bred For Balance: February 14, 2025

Flittie/Schnabel/Lazy J Bar: February 15, 2025

CK Cattle & Wager Cattle: February 16, 2025

Wasem Red Angus: February 20, 2025

Pederson Broken Heart Ranch: March 5, 2025

Keller Broken Heart Ranch: March 6, 2025

Vollmer Angus Ranch: April 1, 2025

Jorgensen Land & Cattle: April 21, 2025

World Famous Miles City Bucking Horse Sale: May 15 - 18, 2025

BULL SALE REPORT & RESULTS

Click HERE for the latest Bull Sale Results

https://ranchchannel.com/category/past-bull-production-sales-archive/

FEATURING

Dr. Harold Newcomb, DVM

Merck Animal Health

https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/

@merckanimalheath

Kirk Donsbach: Stone X Financial

https://www.stonex.com/

@StoneXGroupInc

Shaye Koester

Casual Cattle Conversation

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

@cattleconvos

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