Parasites and Diseases
Nose Bots

A Field Guide
TO COMMON WILDLIFE DISEASES
AND PARASITES IN ALASKA

NOSE BOTS

What causes nose bots?

• This condition is caused by the larvae of the bot fly.
• Lifecycle: The adult female bot fly deposits larvae in the nostrils of caribou. Nose bot larvae attach and grow in a cluster in the caribou’s throat near the base of the tongue. The larvae are sneezed out in the spring.

Where are nose bots found?

• Nose bots can be found in caribou throughout their range in Alaska.

What are the signs of nose bots?

• Caribou usually appear healthy.
• When laying their eggs, bot flies harass caribou and interfere with feeding.
• Nose bot larvae are found in the sinuses and airways at the back of the throat.
• The worm-like larvae are white when they begin to develop but grow to ¾ to 1½ inches in length over the winter and become yellowish-brown.

How can I protect myself?

• You cannot be infected by nose bot flies or their larvae.

Can I eat the meat?

• Meat from affected animals is suitable for human consumption.

Samples to collect

• Larvae of the bot fly
• To report an occurrence or to submit a sample for identification/analysis, contact the DWC Wildlife Disease Surveillance reporting hotline 907-328-8354, send an email to dfg.dwc.vet@alaska.gov or visit your local ADF&G office.