SD Officials Ask For Reports of Dead Deer

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – South Dakota wildlife officials are asking hunters and landowners to be on the lookout for dead dear.

The Game, Fish and Parks Department reports that this is the time of year when deer tend to die from hemorrhagic disease, which is also known as epizootic hemorrhagic disease or blue tongue. The disease is common in white-tailed deer and typically detected in late summer or early fall.

The virus is spread by a biting midge and causes extensive internal bleeding. Infected deer are often found in low-lying areas or near rivers or ponds, where they go to combat the high fever.

Officials are asking people to contact local conservation officers or call the department’s Pierre headquarters at 605-773-5913 if they see sick deer or find several dead dear in one place.