Texas Parks and Wildlife

09/05/2026

Good news about New World screwworm!

Several previously designated infested zones have had their restrictions lifted.

We remain vigilant, continuing to fight this pest with sterile fly releases, animal inspections, and public outreach.

👉 Visit screwworm.texas.gov for latest updates.

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Our partners in the fight against New World screwworm:
Texas Animal Health Commission
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Texas Division of Emergency Management
Texas Department of Agriculture

Texas is aggressively responding to the New World Screwworm threat. Below are key updates and actions from Governor Abbott and state agencies:

09/04/2026

We study fish 🧐

Big fish, little fish, sunfish, cichlids and more.

At the Heart of the Hills Fisheries Science Center we research fish biology and behavior to help Texas species thrive and optimize Texas fishing opportunities.

Current projects include:
- Factors affecting redear sunfish growth
- Rio Grande Cichlid age/growth
- Collaboration w/ Alligator Gar bowfishing guides
- Bass genetics
- Impact of flooding on fish species

09/02/2026

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS 🗣
Help bring our upcoming events to life👇 No experience needed - we’ll train!

All volunteers receive a t-shirt, parking pass and grounds pass.

🗓 SIGN UP HERE, multiple shifts available:

State Fair of Texas (Dallas) 9/26-28 bit.ly/3SD3Xz8

Baytown Nurture Nature Fest 10/10 bit.ly/4df8FKj

Fiesta de Palmas (McAllen) 10/16-18 bit.ly/4qKJ3uB

Texas Parks and Wildlife Volunteers

09/02/2026

So fun you forget you’re learning 👇

08/31/2026

Keep an eye on your best buddy 🐾

Protect your pet from New World screwworm, a fly that lays eggs in open wounds and mucous membranes of warm-blooded mammals. If left untreated, it can kill infested animals.

🔎 If you head out into the field with your canine companion, inspect them often for any cuts or scratches, and pay attention to unusual behavior or foul odors.

👉 If something looks off, contact your veterinarian right away.

Find out more at tpwd.texas.gov/screwworm

Our partners:
Texas Animal Health Commission
Texas Division of Emergency Management
Texas Department of Agriculture
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

08/29/2026

Yappy birthday to Texas Game Wardens K9 Cam 🎉 🐾

To celebrate, her partner’s daughters made her a doggie cupcake.

They said she “needed” it because everyone gets cake on their birthday.

Roger that 🫡

When K9 Cam isn’t following her nose and working hard with her partner, she enjoys belly rubs, playing with her junior handlers (the cupcake makers) and endless games of fetch.

See some of Cam’s fellow officers on the Texas Game Wardens account 🐕

Bone Appétit, Cam!

08/28/2026

A young boy's vision come to life 🛹

11-year-old Jace presented his idea for a local skate park to Cuero City Government. Thanks to a grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife Recreation Grants, it's now a reality.

We’re proud to support communities in creating safe, accessible outdoor spaces that bring people together 🫶

👉 Find out more about our grants program at bit.ly/RecreationGrants