Mississippi wildlife officials conduct annual deer health evaluations

Mississippi wildlife biologists, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Mississippi State University have been conducting Deer Herd Health Evaluations across the state. The assessments, performed annually, focus on mature female deer aged 2.5 years and older.

The evaluations take place on Wildlife Management Areas, state parks, U.S. military lands, and other public and private properties. They target areas needing updated breeding data, limited hunting, or where herd changes are being monitored, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

During the evaluations, biologists collect data on breeding activity, disease prevalence, and body condition. This includes testing for parasites, epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), and chronic wasting disease (CWD). They also record weight and Kidney Fat Index to assess overall health.

The collected data helps track herd health over time and identify concerns such as low body weights or high parasite loads. All deer harvested during these evaluations are donated to charitable organizations, including Hunters for the Hungry and local food banks, the department said.

Source: Original Article