Botflies frequently infest squirrels because the squirrel is the specific host for the Cuterebra botfly genus, and the life cycle is perfectly adapted for mutual survival. Female botflies lay eggs near squirrel habitats, like dens and tree hollows. When a squirrel encounters an egg, it hatches, and the larva burrows under the skin, developing in a "warble" before emerging as a pupa.
A Perfect Symbiosis
Specific Host: The Cuterebra genus of botflies is adapted to use rodents and rabbits as their primary hosts, making squirrels a preferred target.
Proximity to Habitat: Female botflies lay eggs on twigs, branches, and vegetation in areas frequented by squirrels, ensuring easy access to their host.
Environmental Cues: The increase in temperature when a squirrel encounters an egg causes it to hatch, initiating the parasitic cycle.
The Larval Stage
Warble Formation: Once the larva burrows under the skin, it creates a warble, a visible lump with a small opening that allows it to breathe.
Development: The larva develops inside the warble for several weeks before it matures.
Pupation and Emergence
Emergence from Host: The fully developed larva emerges from the warble as a pupa, which then burrows into the ground to complete its life cycle.
Seasonal Timing: Botfly infestations and the appearance of warbles are typically seasonal, occurring most often in late summer and early fall.
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