Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) found in Ingham County whitetail

A six-year-old female whitetail was observed acting strangely around a residence in Ingahm County. The deer appeared to be severely underweight and unafraid of human contact.
Further investigation by DNR wildlife pathologists confirmed the animal suffered from Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD, a condition that affects the brain and nervous system.
School is still out as to why one animal in a particular area contracts the disease. So far, CWD isn't indicated in livestock.
Hunters are asked to be on the look out for deer acting strangely. Road kill deer could also be carrying the disease. In either case, the DNR should be contacted at the DNR Wildlife Disease Hotline, (517) 614-9602.
Presently, a core area that includes Clinton, Shiawassee and Ingham Counties ban deer and elk feeding and baiting and a prohibition the salvage of deer killed by collision with a motor vehicle within the core area.
Additionally, mandatory deer checking will be required during deer seasons to test for CWD of harvested deer.
Anterless quotas during hunting season will be increased to help reduce the population to help prevent deer-to-deer spread of the disease.
Licenses and combos may be returned for a refund and new licenses may be purchased prior to the start of deer seasons. After Sept., 19, licenses are considered used and cannot be returned.
For more information visit www.michigan.gov/cwd.

Whitetail deer with CWD. Photo courtesy Wisconsin DNR