Game and Fish finds CWD in new Deer Hunt Area near Sheridan

Game and Fish finds CWD in new Deer Hunt Area near Sheridan

 

SHERIDAN - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department recently euthanized a white-tailed deer exhibiting signs of chronic wasting disease (CWD). The deer tested positive for CWD, which is a fatal neurological disease of deer, elk and moose. The white-tailed deer was found in deer hunt area 24 - an area flanked on three sides by deer hunt areas where CWD was previously documented.

The buck was euthanized by Game and Fish personnel on November 16, 2016 about 2.5 miles southwest of the town of Big Horn.

“We appreciate anyone reporting an animal that appears to be sick and appreciate the help of the public in monitoring the health of the public’s wildlife,” Scott Edberg, Deputy Chief of the Wildlife Division, said. Consistent with the Centers for Disease Control Game and Fish does not recommend people eat deer, elk or moose that test positive for CWD.

Game and Fish personnel continue to watch for cervids that appear sick. Game and Fish also continues to collect samples of deer, elk and moose through hunter field checks and at CWD sampling stations. Game and Fish personnel collect and analyze more than 1,600 CWD samples annually throughout the state.

Hunters who wish to have their deer, elk or moose tested for CWD outside of the department’s CWD surveillance program can to do so by contacting the Wyoming State Veterinary Lab at (307) 766-9925. Hunters should be aware that it may take a few weeks after their animal is sampled to get their test results.

For more information on chronic wasting disease transmission and regulations on transportation and disposal of carcasses please visit the Game and Fish website at: https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Wildlife-in-Wyoming/More-Wildlife/Wildlife-Disease/Chronic-Wasting-Disease/CWD-Disease-Info.

-WGFD-