The Great Florida Deer Debacle: How Many Bambi's Have the Wobbly Brain Disease?
Florida, the land of sunshine, beaches, and...uh oh, what's this? Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) knocking on the everglades? Don't fret, fellow Floridian (or curious outsider), we're here to sift through the swamp of information and deliver the truth, with a sprinkle of humor (because sometimes, laughter is the best medicine, even if it's not good for deer).
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| How Many Cases Of Cwd In Florida |
One and Done...For Now
The short answer: As of June 5th, 2024, there's only been one confirmed case of CWD in Florida. That's right, just one wobbly-legged deer in Holmes County back in June 2023.
The slightly longer answer: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), bless their hearts, went into overdrive after that first case. They tested nearly 400 samples from the area and thankfully, nada, zilch, zero positive results! So, it seems like that one deer might have been a lone ranger (or should we say, rangerette?) with the prion party.
But Wait, There's More (Maybe)
The not-so-great news: CWD is a sneaky little prion disease, and it can take a while for it to show up in tests. So, the FWC is staying vigilant, like a superhero with a keen eye for deer with glazed-over expressions. They're keeping a close watch on the area and testing like there's no tomorrow (orz, hopefully for the deer!).
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
The good news: There's no evidence that CWD can jump from deer to humans (phew!). Just be sure to follow proper handling procedures if you come across a deer that seems a bit off.
How To Not Freak Out About Wobbly Deer: A Mini FAQ
How to spot CWD in a deer?
While tricky, some signs include unusual weight loss, excessive drooling, tremors, and a general lack of coordination (think Bambi on ice skates). But remember, these symptoms can also be caused by other things. If you see a deer that seems unwell, leave it alone and contact the FWC.
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
How to avoid spreading CWD?
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Don't transport whole carcasses or body parts from outside the state. If you harvest a deer, get it tested at a certified facility. Basically, be a responsible outdoorsman!
How can I help with CWD monitoring?
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
The FWC is always looking for extra eyes and ears. You can report sick deer or suspicious activity. Every little bit helps!
How worried should I be about CWD in Florida?
Right now, not too worried. But it's always good to be aware and take precautions.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How do I make a delicious venison chili without worrying about CWD?
This one requires a whole other post! But let's just say, proper handling and getting your deer tested is key. In the meantime, there's always tofu chili...
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