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NY deer carrying Covid-19 virus!

By Jack Danchak
Posted 9/17/21

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA) announced the results of a study that analyzed serum samples from wild free-ranging white-tailed deer for …

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NY deer carrying Covid-19 virus!

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA) announced the results of a study that analyzed serum samples from wild free-ranging white-tailed deer for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. SARS-CoV-2 is the name of the virus, and Covid-19 is the disease caused by the virus.

Results of the study indicated that white-tailed deer populations in New York, Illinois, Michigan and Pennsylvania were exposed to SARS-CoV-2. In New York 68 deer were tested and 19% contained the virus.

The good news is that the USDA study said there is no evidence that deer can spread the virus to people. What is not known is how deer came in contact with the virus. The study said further research is needed on these findings, including how deer were exposed to the virus and potential impacts, if any, on deer populations, other wildlife and people.

The USDA studied both wild deer as well as those that were intentionally infected with the virus and said there was no clinical illness associated with deer carrying the virus. The USDA study reaffirmed that there is no evidence that people can get the virus by preparing or eating meat from a deer infected with the virus. However, it stated that hunters can get infected with several other diseases when processing or eating game and should always practice good hygiene when processing animals.

Arizona Bans Trail Cameras!

Arizona is another state that has banned the use of trail cameras. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGF) Commission voted to ban trail cameras that are used for the purpose of taking or aiding in the take of wildlife, or locating wildlife for the purpose of taking or aiding in the take of wildlife. This decision was made after months of hearing from hunters both state and nationwide. It will take effect on January 1, 2022.

The AZGF Commission stated, “Trail cameras are believed to cause increased traffic in the field during hunts. Hunters and guides who have placed cameras interrupt other persons hunt by checking their trail camera during prime hunting hours. Hunters have expressed their frustrations about the proliferation of cameras at Department catchments and other water sources, as compromising their opportunities and overall quality of the hunting experience. Some have shared stories of aggressive hunters and guides trying to chase other hunters away from waters that have their cameras.”

The Commission’s chairman Kurt Davis said, “The ruling will ensure that we protect the quality of the experience, that we protect the wildlife itself and that they are being pursued under Fair Chase Doctrine. That balance is the essential part of being on the commission and setting the rules that govern how we pursue wildlife.”

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