All articles tagged with #wildlife and environment
Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been confirmed in white-tailed deer in four Michigan counties and is being tracked in Missouri. The virus, transmitted by biting midges, causes high fevers and internal bleeding, leading to rapid death. Officials confirm the disease does not affect humans or pets, and venison from healthy deer remains safe to consume. Outbreaks typically end after the first frost.
Hemorrhagic disease is causing significant deer mortality in Missouri and Michigan, with similar outbreaks reported in Wisconsin. The virus, spread by midges, has no cure but poses no risk to humans. Officials urge the public to report sick or dead deer to monitor the spread.
A bald eagle believed to be Jackie from the Big Bear nest cam was found weak along Big Bear Lake and is in stable condition at the Ojai Raptor Center after transfer from the San Dimas rescue; initial checks showed the bird was underweight, muddy-footed, and with disheveled feathers but no obvious wounds, and veterinarians are conducting a full assessment while theories about her decline include lead poisoning or stress from recent aerial encounters.
Shark bites and fatalities increased globally in 2023, with Australia accounting for a disproportionate number of deaths, particularly in the Eyre Peninsula due to a rebounding seal population bringing great whites closer to surfers. Despite the uptick, shark numbers are actually declining globally, leading to increased encounters as sharks move closer to coastal waters due to overfishing. Factors such as improved water quality and increasing temperatures are also driving sharks to pursue prey in new areas. Practical advice for avoiding shark encounters varies by location, and people are advised to do local research and be cautious, such as getting out of the water if schools of bait fish are spotted.