What Should You Do If You Encounter a Sick Deer?

Recognizing Symptoms

When encountering a deer, observe for signs of illness such as excessive drooling, stumbling, or lethargy. Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a degenerative neurological disorder that affects deer, elk, and moose, causing weight loss, abnormal behavior, and difficulty walking. Look for unusual behaviors like excessive salivation, trembling, or loss of coordination.

Safe Handling Protocols

Maintain a safe distance to avoid contracting CWD through contact with infected deer bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, or feces. Avoid direct contact with animals or their carcasses, and wear protective gear like gloves and masks when handling the animal. When reporting the sighting, provide a detailed description of the deer’s location, behavior, and any visible symptoms.

Reporting and Disposition

When reporting a sick deer to local wildlife authorities, be prepared to provide location information, a detailed description of the animal, and any observed symptoms. This will aid in collecting and testing the deer for CWD. In most cases, the deer will be humanely euthanized and submitted for CWD testing to monitor disease prevalence and prevent further transmission to other deer populations. This is crucial in preventing the spread of CWD and protecting the ecosystem.