What are primary diseases affecting deer in Texas?

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)

Chronic wasting disease is a significant concern for deer in the Texas Hill Country. It’s a neurological disorder caused by a misfolded protein, prion. CWD has been detected in the region, with a minimum of 12 positive test results in the 2020-2021 deer season. It’s essential for hunters to follow proper deer handling and butchering procedures to minimize the risk of spreading the disease. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) requires mandatory sampling for CWD in certain areas, and hunters can check the CWD status of their deer at any TPWD check station. Hunters are also encouraged to report any unusual deer behavior or mortalities to the TPWD.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis is another significant disease affecting deer in Texas. It’s a bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium bovis, which can be transmitted through contact with infected deer. TB has been detected in the Hill Country, particularly in areas with high deer densities. Hunters can play a crucial role in controlling TB by reporting any unusual deer behavior or mortalities and by following proper deer handling and butchering procedures. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) works closely with TPWD to monitor and control TB in the state’s deer population.

Hemorrhagic Disease

Hemorrhagic disease is a viral disease that affects white-tailed deer in Texas. It’s caused by a virus that’s transmitted through midges, small flying insects. HD can cause significant mortality in deer, particularly during periods of drought or heat stress. Hunters can help monitor the impact of HD by reporting any unusual deer mortalities to TPWD. The agency uses this information to inform management decisions and monitor the disease’s spread in the state.