So You Wanna Hunt in Texas? But Does CWD Want to Hunt You Back?
Ah, Texas. Land of wide-open spaces, ten-gallon hats, and... prions? That's right, folks, we're talking about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a prion disease that affects deer like a bad case of the Mondays that just never quits. But fear not, intrepid hunter! While CWD can't exactly give you the zombie apocalypse experience (although, some mornings...), it's important to be informed before you bag your buck. So, grab your metaphorical lasso (or maybe just a cup of coffee) and let's wrangle this information into a steerable steer.
Where the Wild Things Are (and Unfortunately, Aren't)
CWD isn't exactly a statewide shindig in Texas. Thankfully, it's mostly moseying around in the western panhandle and far west Texas. Think of it as the exclusive dance club for deer with questionable dance moves. Here's a rundown of the counties where CWD has been spotted:
- The Panhandle Posse: Dallam and Hartley counties.
- The Far West Fiesta: El Paso, Hudspeth, and Lubbock counties (all free-ranging mule deer, by the way).
But wait, there's more! CWD has also been found in some deer breeding facilities, which is kind of like finding a rogue jalapeño popper at a fancy tea party. These facilities are scattered across the state, so it's important to do your research before you buy a trophy buck with a side of mystery prion.
Don't Panic, But Do Be Prepared
Now, before you start picturing deer herds with glowing red eyes, CWD isn't currently transmittable to humans. That's the good news. The bad news? It's still a bummer for deer populations and can put a damper on your hunting trip.
Here's what you can do to be a responsible hunter:
- Hunt CWD-free zones! Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has a handy dandy map to help you steer clear (https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/diseases/cwd/maps/cwd-zones-check-stations.phtml).
- Get your deer tested! If you're lucky enough to bag a buck in an area with CWD, get it tested for peace of mind (and the deer's sake).
- Be a good sportsman! Report any sick-looking deer to the TPWD. Remember, a healthy ecosystem means happy hunting for everyone.
So there you have it, folks! With a little planning and some basic knowledge, you can avoid the whole CWD kerfuffle and focus on what really matters: bragging rights, delicious venison chili, and maybe even a decent pair of two-step boots. Now get out there and show those deer who's boss (of responsible hunting, that is).
