Farmers across Butler County know that protecting the health of livestock and poultry is not just about caring for animals — it is about protecting family farms, local food supplies and the agricultural economy that supports Western Pennsylvania.

In recent years, several serious animal diseases and invasive pests have become growing concerns across the United States, including highly pathogenic avian influenza, the Asian longhorned tick and the New World screwworm. While some of these threats are already present in Pennsylvania and others have recently entered the country, the importance of prevention and strong farm biosecurity has never been greater.

One of the most well-known threats is highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly called bird flu.

The disease has affected poultry farms across the country, including commercial flocks in Pennsylvania during 2026. The virus spreads quickly among chickens, turkeys, ducks and other birds through manure, respiratory droplets, contaminated equipment, clothing and even migratory wild birds.

For poultry producers in Butler County, prevention starts with strict biosecurity.

Farmers should limit visitors around poultry barns, disinfect equipment and footwear and keep domestic birds separated from wild waterfowl whenever possible.

Dead birds should be reported immediately to veterinarians or state agriculture officials, especially if multiple unexplained deaths occur in a flock. Even small backyard poultry owners have an important role to play because one infected flock can threaten neighboring farms.

Another growing concern in Pennsylvania is the Asian longhorned tick.

This invasive tick species was first discovered in the United States less than a decade ago and has now spread into Pennsylvania and many eastern states.

Unlike many other ticks, the Asian longhorned tick can reproduce without mating, allowing populations to explode rapidly. Researchers have found that thousands of ticks can infest a single animal.

The danger to livestock is significant. Heavy infestations can weaken cattle and other animals by causing blood loss, stress, weight loss and disease transmission. Pennsylvania officials warn the tick may spread theileria orientalis Ikeda, a parasite capable of causing severe illness or death in cattle.

Farmers can reduce tick problems by mowing brushy areas, rotating pastures and routinely checking animals for infestations. Working closely with veterinarians on approved tick-control products is also important. Since ticks thrive in wooded edges and tall grass, keeping fence lines clean and reducing wildlife exposure can help lower risk.

Butler County producers who notice unusual tick infestations should report them to veterinarians or Penn State Extension offices.

Perhaps the most alarming emerging threat is the New World screwworm.

Recently, the parasite reentered the United States in a 3-week-old calf according to the USDA. Federal officials are aggressively working to keep it contained to the Southwest United States, in places like Texas and New Mexico.

The New World screwworm is not a typical fly pest. Female flies lay eggs in open wounds or mucous membranes of warm-blooded animals. After hatching, the larvae burrow into living flesh and feed on healthy tissue, often causing severe injury or death if untreated. Cattle, sheep, goats, horses, wildlife, pets and even humans can be affected.

The USDA has described screwworm as a major threat to livestock production and food security, prompting expanded surveillance and prevention programs along the southern border.

Fortunately, there are several ways farmers can help prevent future outbreaks. Quickly treating wounds on livestock is critical because screwworm flies target open cuts. Farmers should regularly inspect animals for unusual sores, foul-smelling wounds or maggot activity and immediately contact a veterinarian if suspicious symptoms appear. Good sanitation, fly control and prompt reporting remain key defenses.

This is not the first time New World screwworm has been in the U.S. It was eradicated back in the 1960s using the Sterile Insect Technique. This technique uses sterile male flies to mate with wild female flies to halt the population’s spread.

While these diseases and pests may seem overwhelming, Butler County farmers have always adapted to new challenges. Agriculture has faced invasive species, disease outbreaks and changing environmental conditions before and the strength of local farming communities continues to be their greatest advantage.

Education and communication are essential. Farmers should stay connected with veterinarians, Penn State Extension, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and producer organizations for the latest guidance. Biosecurity plans should be reviewed regularly, especially for poultry and livestock operations with frequent animal movement or outside visitors.

Consumers also have a role to play. Supporting local farms helps producers invest in stronger animal health practices and updated facilities. It also strengthens the local food system during times when disease outbreaks can affect supply and prices nationwide.

The health of farm animals directly impacts the health of agriculture in Butler County. By staying alert, practicing strong prevention measures and working together, farmers can help protect their animals, their livelihoods and the future of Pennsylvania agriculture.

William Thiele is a Butler County dairy farmer and director of Pennsylvania Farm Bureau District 15. John Thompson is a Butler County Farm Bureau member.

Grant Gulibon is the environmental specialist with Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.