Mexican ranchers struggle to adapt as a parasite ravages cattle exports to the U.S.
Summary
The U.S. has stopped importing live cattle from Mexico due to concerns about a parasite called the New World Screwworm. This affects Mexican ranchers who rely on cattle exports, forcing them to find new ways to earn money.Key Facts
- The New World Screwworm is a parasite that can damage the tissues of warm-blooded animals, including humans.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture halted cattle imports from Mexico in July, the third suspension in eight months, to prevent the parasite.
- Mexico's cattle export industry was worth $1.2 billion last year but is struggling this year with fewer cattle exported.
- Ranchers, like Martín Ibarra Vargas, are facing financial difficulties due to the suspension and are exploring alternatives such as beekeeping and sheep farming.
- More than 2,258 cases of screwworm have been reported in Mexico since last November.
- The U.S. is working to control the parasite by breeding and releasing sterile flies in Mexico and Texas.
- Mexican ranchers have been selling cattle within Mexico at lower prices due to the export ban.
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