As they are throughout their range the white-tailed deer and the moose are familiar and much-valued features of the New England landscape. While the moose struggles to adapt to winter ticks and parasites another threat has emerged to the permanence of both of them in the form of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). CWD is one of a unique class of diseases called prion diseases, which affects only the deer family (deer, elk, moose and reindeer). It is a disease that is always fatal and against which there is no vaccination. The incubation period is months to years and currently the only test for the disease is postmortem. No immunity can develop, and all members of the deer family in New England are susceptible.
Once the disease arrives it never leaves, and will predictably spread, affecting increasing numbers of animals and will, over time, reduce populations. It can be transmitted both from animal to animal and through environmental sources. It is not currently known to exist in the New England states so particular attention will be paid to preventive measures and their implementation. We will explore both the unique biological and complex social implications of the disease as a means of informing wildlife management decisions and personal choices especially as they relate to prevention.
This course is directed at all who value the wildlife of the area, but especially hunters, sporting goods dealers, politicians, and wildlife managers.