Story perspectives

Deer Populations Plummet in Ohio and West Virginia Due to EHD

9/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) is drastically affecting deer populations in West Virginia and Ohio.
Numerous dead deer have been reported, particularly in Washington and Meigs County, Ohio.
Shon Butler from Longspur Tracking highlighted concerning death rates, impacting fall hunting prospects.
Increased rainfall in Ohio fosters conditions for EHD outbreaks, as midge flies thrive in water pools.
EHD symptoms include panting and swollen heads, often leading to death within 36 hours.
While fatal to deer, EHD poses no threat to humans.
Recovery efforts prioritize tracking and reporting sick or deceased deer.

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Story summary

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) is drastically affecting deer populations in West Virginia and Ohio.
Numerous dead deer have been reported, particularly in Washington and Meigs County, Ohio.
Shon Butler from Longspur Tracking highlighted concerning death rates, impacting fall hunting prospects.
Increased rainfall in Ohio fosters conditions for EHD outbreaks, as midge flies thrive in water pools.
EHD symptoms include panting and swollen heads, often leading to death within 36 hours.
While fatal to deer, EHD poses no threat to humans.
Recovery efforts prioritize tracking and reporting sick or deceased deer.