Why test for CWD?
- Testing deer and other susceptible species for CWD allows wildlife biologists and animal health officials to get a clearer picture of the prevalence and distribution of the disease across Texas.
- Proactive monitoring improves the state's response time to a CWD detection and can reduce the risk of the disease further spreading to neighboring deer populations.
Where is the nearest voluntary check station?
Voluntary check stations are located across the state for hunters desiring to have their deer tested. For current information on voluntary check stations (including hours and locations), visit the map at the TPWD or Outdoor Annual websites. Call your local TPWD biologist, they will be happy to arrange for testing if you are not in a CWD zone.
What do I need to bring to the voluntary check station to have a deer tested?
TPWD staff will collect a tissue sample from the head of the deer for testing purposes. The head may be attached to the carcass or separated. If you separate the head from the carcass, it is very important to include the first two to three vertebrae to keep the necessary samples intact. Place the head in a plastic trash bag and keep it cool (but not frozen) until you get to the station.
Is testing free?
Yes, TPWD will provide free CWD testing for all your hunter harvest samples.
How long does it take to get results?
On average, about two weeks. You can access your results on the TPWD CWD website.
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 end-stage of the disease. An animal infected with CWD may be shedding prions, the agent that causes CWD, well before symptoms become apparent. The disease cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone since other diseases or conditions can cause the animal to exhibit similar symptoms.
What other precautions should I take?
Properly dispose of carcass parts. Preferably, hunters would leave unused carcass parts at the site of harvest. Deer carcasses or carcass parts transported away from the property of harvest must be properly disposed of.
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.