Hemorrhagic disease again causing deer deaths on reservation

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), caused by biting midge flies, has been confirmed to be the source of mortalities in white-tailed deer from the areas surrounding Polson, Ronan, St. Ignatius and Hot Springs and other areas in the Mission Valley.

According to a press release from the CSKT Division of Fish, Wildlife, Recreation and Conservation, staff is continuing to monitor the situation. While it isn’t necessary for the public to report additional dead deer suspected of EHD in these areas, potential outbreaks observed in new areas of the Flathead Reservation should be reported by emailing [email protected] or calling the Wildlife Conflict call number at 406-275-2774.

EHD is a viral disease that can affect deer, antelope and elk species. It is not contagious to humans. Outbreaks tend to occur near water sources in late-summer and early fall when certain small fly species emerge. 

The disease can persist in an area for up to three years after an initial outbreak and will likely subside after the first few frosts of the season.

While the disease can cause significant die-offs in localized deer populations, the outbreaks are usually short-lived and not widespread. Affected areas are generally localized.

CSKT advises that meat from animals that appear healthy at the time of harvest remain safe to eat when properly cooked. However, hunters are urged to have harvested animals tested for Chronic Wasting Disease. 

While the two diseases have some similar symptoms – such as lethargy, drooling or foaming at the mouth – EHD causes a swollen, blue tongue and is rapidly fatal, while CWD causes droopy ears, neck and head. Infected animals often walk in circles and appear to be extremely emaciated.

Hunters, anglers and recreators are also advised to take precautions around water sources where EHD-infected carcasses tend to be concentrated and can attract bears. Since both grizzly and black bears are preparing for hibernation, the dead deer can provide a much-needed energy boost – as well as create potential conflicts with humans.

“Please carry bear spray and use extreme caution when recreating,” concludes the press release.

Chronic Wasting Disease check stations now open 

Reservation hunters are encouraged to check out the CWD interactive map at cskt.org/cwd-check-stations/. The new site features check station locations, operational dates and hours, and a map of the CWD management zones within the Flathead Indian Reservation.  

It also allows hunters to check in real-time if a check station is open or closed and plan accordingly.  

CWD check station locations:  

• Polson: 406 6th Ave. East, open 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday with drop-box available 24/7; 

• Ronan: Round Butte Rd. across from Westland Seed, open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday;

The following locations are open as staffing permits: Elmo, gravel pull out on Hwy. 28; Ravalli, AIS Watercraft Inspection Station; and St. Ignatius Community Center Gym.

For more information, call 406-883-2888, or email [email protected],