Tennessee’s State Veterinarian is urging animal owners to be aware of New World Screwworm, an invasive parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, causing painful infected wounds. This pest poses a serious threat to livestock and other warm-blooded animals, including pets, and in rare case, humans. Adult flies are slightly larger than houseflies, with metallic blue/green bodies, orange eyes, and three dark stripes on their backs.
If you suspect New World Screwworm, contact the State Veterinarian’s office at 615-837-5120 or the USDA Area Veterinarian in Charge at 615-517-2642. (Photo courtesy Tennessee Department of Agriculture)
