Abstracts

Abstract: The New World screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) were once considered the most important parasite of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Florida and Texas. The larvae consume living flesh, causing myiasis in livestock and wildlife often resulting in death if left untreated. Although still present in most of South America and several Caribbean countries, the fly was eradicated in the Southeast by 1959, and no infestations were documented in the United States since 1982. In September 2016, a local infestation of the screwworm fly was confirmed in the Florida Keys. All warm-blooded animals are susceptible to infestation; however, the majority of cases were documented in the endangered Key deer (O. v. clavium). Male deer were particularly susceptible due to the prevalence of open wounds related to breeding season behavior. By the end of November 2016, 132 deer had died due to the infestation. Primary eradication efforts involved biological control through the release of sterile flies. Additional efforts related to Key deer included euthanasia of individuals with severe myiasis, medication with oral or topical parasiticide, and immobilization and treatment of individuals with minor infestations. During October and November 2016, 3768 doses of parasiticide were dispensed, and 18 deer were immobilized and treated. These methods have helped to reduce the number of screwworm infestations of Key deer.