Hemorrhagic Disease Causes Deer Mortality on Flathead Reservation
KALISPELL, Mont. — A notable increase in deer deaths has been observed on the Flathead Reservation, particularly in the Hot Springs region and across multiple locations in Mission Valley.
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Wildlife Management report that hemorrhagic disease is the likely cause behind the fatalities affecting both white-tailed deer and elk populations.
This viral disease, transmitted by tiny biting midges known as Culicoides spp., has been confirmed within the reservation boundaries and in adjacent areas. While the virus poses no direct threat to humans, its impact on cervid health and survival can be severe.
Biological and Ecological Context
Hemorrhagic disease typically emerges in late summer and early fall near water bodies, coinciding with the lifecycle of biting midges that serve as vectors. Infected deer may exhibit symptoms such as fever, swelling, and hemorrhaging, often resulting in death within days.
Recent climatic conditions, including an early frost, are expected to reduce midge activity and consequently end the current outbreak. However, mortalities are anticipated to continue over the coming week as infected animals succumb to symptoms with an incubation period that can extend up to 10 days.
Expert Commentary
- Dr. Karen Schultz, a wildlife disease specialist, emphasizes that “outbreaks of hemorrhagic disease can cause significant population declines, particularly in areas with high cervid densities and suitable habitats for biting midges.”
- The timing of the outbreak aligns with known seasonal trends, as biting midge abundance and viral transmission rates peak during warmer months before frost limits insect activity.
- Wildlife managers monitor these outbreaks closely to assess population impacts and inform conservation measures tailored to maintaining healthy deer and elk herds.
Additional reporting and sources from: Hemorrhagic disease outbreak claims deer on Flathead Reservationsbg-envelope
