As the firearm deer hunting season commences in Michigan, the focus of many hunters is on securing a trophy whitetail deer. However, behind the scenes, experts are deeply concerned about the health of deer populations, particularly in relation to various diseases that threaten their survival. One prominent voice in this field is Sonja Christensen, an assistant professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Her ongoing research is dedicated to understanding the dynamics of wildlife diseases and their implications for cervid populations.
Among the most pressing concerns is Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects deer, elk, and moose. CWD is caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins that lead to brain damage in infected animals. While CWD does not pose a threat to human health, it is invariably fatal for cervids, making it a significant concern for wildlife management.
Transmission of CWD is believed to occur through direct or indirect contact with infected bodily fluids such as saliva, urine, and feces. Alarmingly, research indicates that prions can remain viable in the environment for extended periods, meaning that areas where infected deer once roamed can still pose a risk for new infections. Symptoms of CWD can take months or even years to manifest, complicating efforts to monitor and control the disease. Infected deer may exhibit signs such as severe weight loss, disorientation, and lethargy.
Another disease impacting deer populations is Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), a viral illness primarily affecting wild ruminants like whitetail deer. EHD is transmitted by biting midges, also known as no-see-ums, and is closely related to the bluetongue virus. The disease can lead to high mortality rates in affected populations, particularly during outbreaks when conditions favor the midge population.
Christensen emphasizes the importance of understanding these diseases, not just from a wildlife perspective, but also for the implications they hold for hunters and the ecosystem as a whole. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been actively involved in monitoring deer populations for CWD, and since 2015, the disease has been detected in 256 whitetail deer across 13 counties in the state. While this number may seem small, the challenge lies in accurately assessing the prevalence of the disease within the broader deer population.
Estimating the total number of free-ranging deer in Michigan is complex, and the actual number of infected individuals is likely higher than reported. Surveillance efforts are crucial for tracking the spread of CWD and implementing management strategies to mitigate its impact. Research indicates that in areas with a high prevalence of CWD, long-term population declines can occur, which raises concerns about the future of deer in Michigan.
Despite the current overabundance of deer in certain regions of southern Michigan, maintaining healthy populations is vital for biodiversity and ecological balance. The presence of diseases like CWD and EHD underscores the need for ongoing research and proactive management to safeguard deer populations and ensure their sustainability for future generations.
As hunters gear up for the season, it is essential for them to be aware of these diseases and the potential risks they pose not only to deer but also to the hunting community. Education and awareness can play a significant role in disease prevention and management, ensuring that hunters can continue to enjoy their sport while contributing to the health of wildlife populations.
In summary, as the hunting season unfolds, the intersection of wildlife health and hunting practices remains a critical area of focus. With experts like Sonja Christensen leading the charge in research, there is hope for better understanding and managing the diseases that threaten deer populations, ultimately fostering a healthier ecosystem for all.
