JACKSON – In 2013, a non-permitted high-fenced enclosure was discovered by MDWFP law enforcement southwest of Hattiesburg in Lamar County. An extensive investigation by MDWFP and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service revealed that animals within this enclosure had been transported from Texas facilities that were linked to CWD-positive animals. In January 2017, a tornado struck the Hattiesburg area and damaged approximately 6,845 feet of the enclosure fence, releasing animals into the surrounding area.
MDWFP established a 5-mile radius surveillance zone around the enclosure in an effort to detect any CWD-positive animals. Hunters that harvested a deer within this zone were asked to voluntarily submit deer heads at local fire stations around the area. During the 2017/2018 deer season, a total of 70 samples were submitted for testing and all were returned “not detected for CWD”. Sample results are posted by tag receipt number on www.mdwfp.com/deer. MDWFP plans to continue this sampling method for two additional years.
MDWFP requests that anyone who observes a deer with ear tags in this area immediately call 1-800-BESMART. In addition, deer exhibiting signs of infection such as drooping head, excessive drooling, uncoordinated walking, or excessive weight loss should be immediately reported to MDWFP.
For more information regarding Chronic Wasting Disease or to report a sick animal, visit www.mdwfp.com/cwd or call (601) 432-2199. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/mdwfp or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDWFPonline.
