Recent deaths of whitetail deer in northwest Montana are suspected to be due to hemorrhagic diseases, such as blue tongue disease, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
A Thursday press release from the agency stated the deaths occurred around Plains and Eureka. FWP officials are awaiting test results to confirm the cause of death, which could also include epizootic hemorrhagic disease.
There’s no known threat to human health from either disease, according to the agency, but hunters should avoid killing and consuming animals that appear sick.
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“Both are viral diseases transmitted by biting midges and primarily affect white-tailed deer, though mule deer and other species can also be impacted,” FWP stated. “Outbreaks often occur in late summer and early fall and typically subside once a hard frost reduces midge activity.”
Hemorrhagic disease outbreaks have historically been more common in deer populations east of the Continental Divide but started showing up in western Montana starting in 2013, according to FWP. The pathogens can cause high mortality rates but haven’t been considered to have long-term impacts on whitetail populations, according to the agency.
The diseases can cause hemorrhaging in many organs, and infected animals may appear lame or show weight loss before dying. Infections can also cause sudden death, according to the agency.
FWP staff are monitoring the situation. It is not necessary for the public to report additional dead deer suspected of having HD. While the disease can cause significant losses in localized deer populations, outbreaks are usually short-lived and confined to certain areas.
Archery season for deer and elk in Montana started Sept. 6. General rifle season starts Oct. 25.
Sam Wilson is the outdoors and environment reporter at the Missoulian.
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