What pest is advancing to Texas that is a rancher's enemy?

The New World Screwworm is particularly concerning for ranchers in Texas because it affects livestock, particularly cattle. This pest lays its eggs in open wounds or mucous membranes of the animals, and the larvae feed on the tissue, leading to serious infections and potentially even death if not treated. Its presence can significantly impact livestock health, leading to increased veterinary costs and reduced productivity in affected herds.

While other pests like the Gypsy Moth, Red Imported Fire Ant, and Cattle Tick also pose threats in various ways, they do not specifically target livestock in the same destructive manner as the New World Screwworm. The Gypsy Moth primarily damages trees and forests, while Red Imported Fire Ants can disrupt urban areas and agricultural practices but do not have the same direct detrimental effect on cattle. Cattle Tick, although harmful as it can spread diseases like tick fever, is not advancing in the same way as the New World Screwworm, which has recently been identified as a growing concern in Texas ranching. This specificity in impact on ranchers makes the New World Screwworm the standout pest described in the question.