[WATCH: In the video player above a tender moment between white deer and fawn in NE Ohio]
(WJW) – Wildlife experts in Ohio are asking the public to report any sightings of deer behaving abnormally. This could include appearing disoriented or showing little or no fear of humans.
According to a post on the Ohio Division of Wildlife‘s Facebook page, experts are tracking a potential outbreak of deer suffering from Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease.
The disease does not affect humans and doesn’t impact the safety of venison, but can result in high deer mortality, said officials. The disease comes from the bite of an infected midge (a type of fly) and is often associated with drought conditions, which Ohio has experienced over the past month.
The Ohio Division of Wildlife shared a recent map showing where dead or sick deer have been reported. The map shows confirmed case(s) in Cuyahoga County and potential hotspots in parts of Summit and Medina counties where several potential cases were reported.
“Midwestern deer populations have developed little resistance to EHD and are likely to die within three days following the onset of symptoms,” states the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. “Carcasses are often recovered near water.”
Other symptoms experts advise to watch for include a deer appearing feverish, swelling of the head, neck, tongue, and eyelids, or respiratory distress.
CLICK HERE to learn more. You can report possible cases, here.
