EHD & Feeders

[ril7572]

I think it's time for those of us in areas where EHD is confirmed to strongly consider not feeding deer. Personally, I have decided to quit putting out corn in front of trailcams until the EHD threat has passed. Common sence tells me that consentrating deer in a small area, could increase the chances for healthy deer coming in contact with infected ones.

This is not meant to be a "is baiting right or wrong" thread. Just something to consider during this time.

[naturalelite]

I think it's time for those of us in areas where EHD is confirmed to strongly consider not feeding deer. Personally, I have decided to quit putting out corn in front of trailcams until the EHD threat has passed. Common sence tells me that consentrating deer in a small area, could increase the chances for healthy deer coming in contact with infected ones.

This is not meant to be a "is baiting right or wrong" thread. Just something to consider during this time.

I have thought the same thing. We have avoided putting out corn in Henderson just because of EHD. It might not have any affect on the herd but It would have to increase the chances. I know Henderson isn't on the list of counties but its right beside a few of them so why take the chance.

[WBBP]

Interesting point. I didn't think that EHD is transmittable between the deer, but thought each deer individually had to be bitten/infected by a midge, but maybe my thinking is wrong.

I see your point though since feeding does bring deer closer together somewhat and if midges were in the area, it would be a more target rich environment for the midges.

Taking the opposing thought process.........maybe it is better that the deer are congregating at feeders "away" from stagnant water where more infected midges would be.............:confused:.

Not sure what to think.

K

[muzzy125acc]

How are you going to know if you kill one if it has it or not?????

[WBBP]

I read several articles that said it is not transmittable to humans. Thank goodness.

K

[skin_dog1]

My understanding is that the majority of deer in an area will get infected and about 25% will die. The ones that survive will build an immunity towards future outbreaks. If that is truly the case then it won't matter either way.

[Multidigits]

Here's one that had it, but didn't die from it.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y58/conelydt/Deer/Grandview/P1010021.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y58/conelydt/Deer/Grandview/P1010020.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y58/conelydt/Deer/Grandview/P1010019.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y58/conelydt/Deer/Grandview/P1010018.jpg

[Rackophrenic Rick]

Proceed as usual folks. This is natural etrician. Like the KF&WD biologists said this happens every few years. I'd say it's no different than some of the viruses that plague humans from time to time. The gnats will target animals no matter where they are.