New World Screwworm | Insights from Steve Ruffner, DVM and Capitol Ranch Agent

The Threat of the New World Screwworm: What Landowners Need to Know

At Capitol Ranch Real Estate, we believe responsible land ownership goes hand in hand with caring for the animals that thrive on it. That’s why our own Steve Ruffner, DVM and Capitol Ranch agent, is sharing important insight on the potential threat of the New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) making its way north from Mexico into Texas.

For landowners with livestock, wildlife, exotics, or any other warm-blooded animals, this development deserves serious attention. Understanding the risks today helps protect both your animals and the long-term value of your property.

Blog information provided by Steve Ruffner, DVM and Capitol Ranch Agent. 

What is the New World Screwworm?

The New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays its eggs in the open wounds of animals. Once hatched, the larvae feed on living tissue, which causes painful and sometimes fatal infections.

Although eradicated from the U.S. decades ago, recent reports of its presence in northern Mexico raise concerns about its possible re-entry into Texas. For ranchers and landowners, this is more than a veterinary issue—it’s a land and livestock stewardship concern.

Why This Matters to Our Clients

For Capitol Ranch clients, the health of animals is directly tied to the value, sustainability, and management of ranch properties. A screwworm outbreak could create wide-ranging challenges:

• Livestock Owners – Cattle, sheep, goats, and horses are all vulnerable, leading to production losses, high veterinary costs, and stress on herd health.

• Wildlife Managers – Deer and other native game species could be affected, complicating wildlife programs and reducing hunting value.

• Exotic Animal Owners – Non-native species, often less adapted to local parasites, may suffer even greater harm.

• All Landowners – Infestation can damage reputation, reduce property usability, and create new regulatory hurdles.

In short, screwworms don’t just threaten animals. They threaten land value, ranching operations, and the investment you’ve worked hard to build.

Steps Landowners Can Take

Veterinary professionals, including Dr. Ruffner, recommend several proactive steps:

• Stay Informed – Monitor updates from the USDA, Texas Animal Health Commission, and your local veterinarian.

• Inspect Animals Regularly – Check for wounds or unusual behavior in livestock and wildlife. Early detection is critical.

• Maintain Strong Biosecurity Practices – Limit unnecessary animal movement across borders and work with veterinarians to implement preventive measures.

• Build Partnerships – Establish a trusted relationship with a veterinarian who understands both animal health and land management.

These measures not only protect your animals but also safeguard your property’s long-term value.

Capitol Ranch’s Commitment

As Leaders in the Land Business, Capitol Ranch Real Estate goes beyond buying and selling property. We actively monitor issues like the New World Screwworm because they affect the health of your animals, the value of your land, and the legacy of your investment.

With the expertise of Steve Ruffner, DVM and Capitol Ranch agent, we bring a unique perspective that blends veterinary knowledge with real estate insight. This allows us to help clients navigate challenges that touch both their ranch operations and property ownership.

⚠️ Bottom Line: The re-emergence of the New World Screwworm is a reminder that land stewardship requires vigilance. At Capitol Ranch, we are here to connect you with the resources, veterinary expertise, and industry partners you need to safeguard your animals, your land, and your investment for generations to come.

Contact Steve Ruffner, DVM and Capitol Ranch agent or reach out to your local veterinarian for additional information and/or if you suspect an infestation in your livestock.