06/19/2026
Hunters are often the first to spot problems in the field, and right now, that early detection is critical. ⚠️
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, working alongside state wildlife and animal health officials, is actively fighting to keep it from becoming established in the U.S. But success depends on vigilance from those who spend the most time on the landscape, including hunters, ranchers, landowners, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Know what to look for:
🚨 Unusual or non-healing wounds
🚨 Maggots present in wounds
🚨 Foul odor around an injury
🚨 Excessive irritation or abnormal behavior
🚨 Animals that appear distressed or weakened
If you see something, say something. Report suspected cases to your local Texas Parks and Wildlife biologist or game warden. For livestock or domestic animals, contact the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242. To contact APHIS call 866-487-3297.
Behind the scenes, APHIS is deploying a multi-layered response to stop this threat:
☑️ Releasing ~100 million sterile flies weekly along the U.S.-Mexico border to collapse populations
☑️ Expanding sterile fly production and dispersal infrastructure
☑️ Conducting aggressive surveillance, trapping, and field investigations
☑️ Strengthening border protections and import controls
☑️ Coordinating across federal, state, and international partners
☑️ Encouraging rapid public reporting to ensure early detection
‼️ Why it matters: A major outbreak could cause billions in agricultural losses and significantly impact wildlife populations. The goal is not just control, but complete eradication before the pest can re-establish in the United States.
Conservation works best when we all work together. Hunters have always been the eyes and ears of the field. By staying alert and reporting suspicious cases, YOU play a critical role in protecting wildlife, livestock, and our hunting heritage for generations to come.
