Why am I hearing that Texas deer need our help?
Hundreds of captive and free-ranging deer across Texas counties have tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD) over the past decade. If left unmanaged, CWD can have catastrophic, long-term impacts on the most beloved game animal in the state.
What is Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)?
CWD is a fatal neurological disease found in certain cervids, including deer, elk, moose and other members of the deer family. CWD is a slow and progressive disease. Due to a long incubation, cervids infected with CWD may not produce any visible signs for several years after becoming infected. As the disease progresses, animals with CWD show changes in behavior and appearance. Clinical signs may include progressive weight loss, stumbling or tremors with a lack of coordination, excessive thirst, salivation or urination, loss of appetite, teeth grinding, abnormal head posture and/or drooping ears.
Is CWD dangerous for humans?
Researchers have found no evidence that CWD is transmissible to humans or domestic animals. However, as a precaution, it is strongly advised to test susceptible species harvested in known CWD areas and to not eat meat from CWD positive animals or any sick animal regardless of the disease.
How can I tell if a deer has CWD?
Only through diagnostic testing. Both healthy- and sick-looking deer can be CWD positive as visible symptoms do not become apparent until the terminal stage of the disease. An animal may be shedding the disease in the environment many months before symptoms become apparent. The disease cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone since other diseases or conditions can cause the animal to exhibit similar signs.
Key symptoms: weight loss, stumbling or tremors with a lack of coordination, excessive thirst, salivation or urination, loss of appetite, teeth grinding, abnormal head posture and/or drooping ears. Again, the only way to know for sure about CWD is if the animal gets tested. Hunters can have their harvested deer tested at check stations or by contacting their local TPWD biologist.
What should I do if I see a deer that looks like it might have CWD?
If you see a deer that looks sick call your local Game Warden or biologist. They will be happy to aid you on what to do.