Epizootic Hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been reported in multiple southeastern and midwestern states, and we're seeing significant deer kills because of it.
Impacts of EHD can be quite significant; however, high mortality rates are typically localized. Be aware, but don't panic. The good news is that the first frost kills the biological vectors the disease and it will no longer spread at that point.
Jeremy Starks is a wildlife biologist and host of Bowtech's Whitetail 101 live show Fridays at 8pE. In the video below, he covers what EHD is and what you need to know. He'll be covering this topic and answering your questions LIVE every Friday 8pE until this outbreak is over. Get an instant tune in alert by texting the word WATCH to 313131 (use 393939 in Canada).
These are the three things you need to know about EHD:
- Contact your local or State wildlife agency to learn if any cases are reported in your area.
- If EHD has been reported in your area, it's a good idea to stop feeding ASAP. Feeding and mineral licks aggregate deer together and the midges that carry the disease can hop from body to body.
- If you are suspicious that a deer you've found may have EHD, report it to your state agency immediately.
