New World screwworm preparedness
New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is an immediately reportable parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue. Continued northward spread makes rapid recognition and reporting essential. The Hubbard Lab supports New Mexico and the Southwest through applied research, training, identification resources, stakeholder needs assessments, and practical surveillance guidance.
What we offer
Hands-on trainings and workshops that teach participants to recognize suspect infestations, conduct efficient animal inspections, and collect and submit larvae and flies for identification. Webinars on surveillance tools, trapping, reporting, and response workflows for producers and agency staff. Identification support for suspect flies and larvae, including help distinguishing New World screwworm from commonly confused blow flies. Stakeholder needs assessments so that materials, protocols, and surveillance designs are practical, locally relevant, and easy to implement in the field.
Resources
Adult New World screwworm identification and commonly confused species (NMSU Extension Guide A-156, 2026): View adult identification guide
New World screwworm: What you need to know (NMSU Extension Guide B-115, 2025): View the general guide
MeatEater Podcast, Ep. 835: Attack of the Screw Worms (February 2026), featuring Dr. Hubbard: Listen to the episode
USDA New World screwworm current status and response information: View USDA current status
If you suspect New World screwworm
Do not wait. Contact your veterinarian and state animal health official immediately. In New Mexico, call the New Mexico Livestock Board at 505-841-6161. Do not move the animal. If it is safe to do so, photograph the wound and collect several larvae in 70% alcohol for identification. Email calebh@nmsu.edu with photos and your location.
Request a training
Interested in hosting a New World screwworm or urban pest workshop for your county, ranch, veterinary practice, or organization? Email Dr. Caleb Hubbard at calebh@nmsu.edu with your location, audience, and preferred dates.
Microscopy for rapid identification
Figure from NMSU Extension Guide A-156 showing the diagnostic dorsal view of an adult female New World screwworm. The shortened middle thoracic stripe is outlined. Photo courtesy of Sohath Zamira Yusseff-Vanegas.
Male and female head anatomy
Preserved New World screwworm heads, male with touching eyes (left) and female with separated eyes (right). Figure from NMSU Extension Guide A-156. Photos by Kenneth A. Geisert.
