Update on worm / parasite / larva in mouse

Question
Hi, I saw that someone else has encountered the parasites.  I responded to that question with what I've found out.  Cuterebra spp. Common Name:  The Rodent Bot Fly, mine is in the advance larvae stage. I'm trying to find out more.  Just to let you know the little missy is still going!  Her fur and eyes look much better. She has lost her unthrifty appearance and is not nearly as thin as she was.  

T.Mosier

Answer
Hi,

Thanks for the research info. Whoever named that thing had a sick sense of humor: Cuter, indeed! I'd like to offer a rename: Disgustinga yuckus.

I figured it was a larva. I was wondering what huge thing it would turn into. I have heard of bot flies and they are big. I'm guessing it must lay its eggs under the skin of the mouse. It's incredible that it got that huge in a two week old mouse. Maybe it attaches early on like a tick, but I don't think a larva can do that. I am surprised it doesn't kill its hosts. It has obviously evolved not to do so. I figure it gets layed under the skin because how else would it get so deep into the mouse without eating its vital organs. Does it suck their blood? It certainly can't feed off their flesh, considering it didn't leave a wound and doesn't kill.

Considering that your mouse was sick, maybe it doesn't usually choose such a young victim. Or some mice are stronger than others. It would of course be easier to lay eggs on a mouse without its fur, but I wouldn't think a fly would usually have access to a pup in the nest. Or maybe it has a form between egg and larva.

These are the questions of the day. If I get a chance (and get access to my computer- sharing a computer and ipad with my partner and he does real work on the computer), I may look into it myself. Probably you will beat me to it. You can probably find a page somewhere about the life cycle of the rodent bot fly. They must be common this year. Every year certain creatures are plentiful. This year in early summer in Connecticut, for instance, it was the year of the tiny baby toad. They are a lot cuter than the rodent bot fly, name notwithstanding!

Let me know. Also tell me where you are. I didn't think to notice where the other person is from. I'll find that out.

Squeaks,

Natasha

PS please attach the photo with the ruler in it to your next answer so people searching can see it.