MISSISSIPPI STATE - Mississippi is experiencing a high-activity spring. While the State outdoor focus is on turkey season and the return of "NatureFEST," the Mississippi Board of Animal Health (MBAH) and Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) have issued critical alerts regarding a potential parasitic resurgence and significant legislative shifts for large predators.
From the Delta to the Gulf Coast, here is what is on the move in the Magnolia State right now.
1. New World Screwworm: High-Priority Border Alert
The most urgent agricultural alert for April 2026 concerns the New World Screwworm (NWS). Following a confirmed case in northern Mexico—disturbingly close to the Gulf shipping lanes—the Mississippi Board of Animal Health has issued a high-priority warning to all animal owners.
- The Threat: NWS larvae (maggots) feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. They typically enter through tiny wounds, such as those from ear tagging, castration, or even tick bites.
- The Danger: Left untreated, an infestation can be fatal to livestock, pets, and wildlife within days.
- Action Plan: The MBAH is urging "meticulous inspection" of all animals. If you find a wound with unusual larval activity, do not move the animal or treat it yourself. Contact the State Veterinarian's office immediately at 601-359-1170.
2. Black Bears: Historic Legislation and Spring Movement
April 2026 marks a turning point for Mississippi's black bears. With sightings increasing across the Delta and the southern pine forests, the state legislature has just moved to reintroduce regulated hunting for the first time since 1932.
- The News: Senate Bill 2436 has passed the Senate and cleared the House Committee as of early April. If signed, it would establish a lottery-based hunting season, though wildlife officials note that actual tags may not be issued for several years while population models are finalized.
- Current Activity: Due to the unseasonably warm spring, bears are highly active and "skipping" traditional hibernation. They are currently seeking high-calorie foods to support recent cub births.
- The Rule: Never intentionally feed bears. MDWFP warns that habituated bears associate humans with food, leading to dangerous confrontations. Secure your trash and remove bird feeders in bear-active counties.
3. Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Amite County
On February 4, 2026, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was diagnosed in a commercial broiler flock in Amite County.
- The Status: While the initial outbreak was contained, surveillance remains high this month as migratory birds return north through the Mississippi Flyway.
- Action: Backyard poultry owners should maintain strict biosecurity. Avoid letting your birds mingle with wild waterfowl, and report any sudden, unexplained deaths in your flock to the MBAH.
4. Feral Hogs: The "Smart Trap" Offensive
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) just concluded its February application period for the Wild Hog Control Program, and "smart" traps are currently deployed across the state this April.
- The Goal: Feral hogs cause millions in damage to Mississippi's timber and agriculture. The state is prioritizing "whole-sounder removal" using cellular-linked traps.
- Action: If you see feral hogs, report the location via the MDWFP app. Landowners are encouraged to work with neighbors to trap entire groups at once; shooting individual hogs often makes the rest of the sounder "trap-shy" and harder to catch.
5. The "Cattail" Mosquito and Tick Surge
Following a "rollercoaster" spring with sudden warm spikes, Mississippi is seeing a jumpstart to the biting insect season.
- Tick Warning: The first Deer Ticks of 2026 were active as early as March 9th. Health officials warn that nymphal ticks (the size of a poppy seed) are emerging now and may have a higher prevalence of Lyme disease this year due to late larval activity last fall.
- Mosquito Forecast: 2026 is projected to be a "high year" for Cattail Mosquitoes. These hatch in mass broods and are notoriously aggressive. Aerial larvicide treatments in wetlands are scheduled to begin this week.
- Action: Perform a "full-body scan" every night. Wear light-colored clothing to spot "poppy seed" nymphs before they attach.
Checklist for Mississippi Residents
- Inspect Every Wound: Check livestock and pets for maggots to prevent a Screwworm outbreak.
- Bear-Proof the Yard: If you live in the Delta or South Mississippi, secure your trash to prevent bears from becoming "nuisance" animals.
- Snake Awareness: As temperatures hit the 80s, Copperheads and Cottonmouths are basking in the sun. Wear closed-toe shoes and stay on clear trails.
- Protect the Flock: Maintain HPAI biosecurity for backyard chickens during the spring migration.