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Texas officials say rodents and other small wildlife could be to blame for New World Screwworm infestations
By Texas Tribune, Berenice Garcia at KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News
· June 23, 2026
· 4 min read
Subscribe to The Y’all — a weekly dispatch about the people, places and policies defining Texas, produced by Texas Tribune journalists living in communities across the state.McALLEN — As the New World screwworm continues to infiltrate livestock and other animals in Texas, many have been asking ho...
Key takeaway “Bud” Dinges, executive director of the Texas Animal Health Commission, told the Texas House Committee on Agriculture and Livestock.
Why this matters in Alamo Heights News
The revelation that small wildlife and rodents may be responsible for the New World Screwworm infestations in Texas has significant implications for Alamo Heights residents who live near green spaces and wildlife corridors. As the Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department continue to investigate the source of the infestation, local animal owners and outdoor enthusiasts should be vigilant about monitoring their pets and livestock for signs of the parasitic fly. The fact that small mammals like armadillos, opossums, and rabbits can carry the screwworm means that even residents who don't own livestock could be affected. With the screwworm's ability to spread quickly, it's crucial for the community to take proactive measures to prevent further infestations and protect local wildlife and domestic animals. As the situation unfolds, Alamo Heights residents should stay informed about any developments and take steps to safeguard their animals and properties.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News . Alamo Heights News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Subscribe to The Y’all — a weekly dispatch about the people, places and policies defining Texas, produced by Texas Tribune journalists living in communities across the state.McALLEN — As the New World screwworm continues to infiltrate livestock and other animals in Texas, many have been asking ho...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News and curated for Alamo Heights News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Texas Tribune, Berenice Garcia at KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News. To learn more about how Alamo Heights News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Alamo Heights News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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