What to do about squirrel warbles?
Squirrel warbles, also known as botflies or warble flies, are a common occurrence in squirrels and other rodents. These parasitic flies lay their eggs on the fur of the host animal, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the skin and form large, swollen bumps known as warbles.
Now, if you come across a squirrel with warbles, it’s important to note that they are generally not harmful to humans or any of the host animals they infest. So, there’s no need to panic if you see a squirrel with these bumps. They do not pose any risk to your health or safety.
In fact, squirrels infested with warbles can still be safely consumed. The warbles themselves do not affect the meat or pose any risk of contamination. However, I understand that the sight of warbles may be unappetizing to some people. If it makes you feel more comfortable, you can certainly cut around the area affected by the warbles before consuming the squirrel.
When it comes to dealing with squirrel warbles, there isn’t much you can do to prevent or treat them directly. Warbles are a natural part of the lifecycle of these parasitic flies, and they will eventually fall off the host animal when the larvae are ready to pupate. The warbles will then transform into adult flies and continue their life cycle.
However, it’s worth noting that warbles are more common in squirrels that have a weakened immune system or are in poor health. So, one way to potentially reduce the occurrence of warbles is to ensure that the squirrel population in your area is healthy and well-nourished. Providing a balanced diet and maintaining a clean and safe environment can help support the overall health of the squirrels and reduce their susceptibility to warbles.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that squirrels play a vital role in our ecosystem. They help with seed dispersal, nutrient cycling, and even control insect populations. So, rather than trying to eliminate squirrels or treat them solely for warbles, it’s often best to focus on coexisting with them and appreciating the important role they play in our natural environment.
Squirrel warbles are generally not harmful to humans or the host animals they infest. If you come across a squirrel with warbles, there’s no need to be alarmed. You can still safely consume the squirrel, but if you find the warbles unappealing, you can cut around the affected area. Remember to focus on supporting the overall health of the squirrel population and appreciating their ecological importance.
