Michigan DNR Shares That CWD Is Plaguing The Deer Population

If you spend any significant amount of time in Michigan than you're bound to come across at least one deer if not several. If you know anything about deer than you know that they are predisposed to run toward open spaces, and this is how they find themselves playing in traffic.

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In addition to cars whizzing by at a minimum of 55 mph there are hunters with an array of weapons depending on the time of year, looking to take them out. Hunting season is something that thousands of Michigan residents look forward to as they try and take down the biggest bucks and have meat for the winter months.

These may only be a few of the dangers that deer face in the state of Michigan which didn't even include the other animals that they may be prey to. While all of those things are concerns of theirs, those are all external things that they don't have full control over. There's another potential danger out there by way of disease and it has made it way to Michigan.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is neurological disease that ends fatally and affects white-tailed deer, elk, and moose. CWD is spread by one of these animals coming in contact with saliva, blood, urine or feces from an animal with CWD. Once infected the animal doesn't stand a chance as the disease moves through the brain, spine and eventually kills the animal.

According to the Michigan DNR the following counties have confirmed cases of CWD:

• Clinton
• Dickinson
• Eaton
• Gratiot
• Hillsdale
• Ingham
• Ionia
• Isabella
• Jackson
• Kent
• Mecosta
• Midland
• Montcalm
• Ogemaw

Although humans can't get CWD its still extremely important to keep yourself safe. Deer for testing can be submitted through drop boxes staffed check stations and participating deer processors and taxidermists in the areas being targeted for testing. Hunters can submit samples through direct submissions through free self-sample shipping kits in counties where CWD has been previously detected.