FWP has received reports of dead and dying deer and antelope throughout the region, especially along rivers. Samples from several carcasses tested positive for hemorrhagic diseases including epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) and blue tongue (BT).
Hemorrhagic diseases are not a risk to humans, and meat from animals that appear healthy at the time of harvest is safe to eat when properly cooked. Hunters should avoid harvesting or consuming animals that appear sick.
EHD and BT are similar viral diseases transmitted by biting midges. Occurrence of these diseases typically subsides after hard frosts and cold weather reduce midge activity. FWP expects mortalities related to these diseases to subside in coming weeks. These diseases cause severe dehydration and fever, so sick and dead animals are often found near water.
FWP staff continue to monitor the situation. It is not necessary for the public to report additional dead animals suspected of having a hemorrhagic disease, especially if found along waterbodies, in Yellowstone and Big Horn counties. Potential cases in other counties in south-central Montana can be reported by calling FWP at 406-247-2940.
For more information on these diseases, visit
fwp.mt.gov/conservation/diseases/ehd-blue-tongue.
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