WDFW suspends rehabilitation if CERVIDS in Eastern WA

[Jingles]

Probably won't be able to harvest road kill. Does it affect the meat if they are killed by a vehicle? I had heard that the fear factor taints the taste, but maybe that is a myth.

CWD affects meat regardless how the animals was dispatched, gun, bow, vehicle or natural causes.

It is unfortunate that as of yet they have not found that CWD is in the predator animals i.e. wolves and cougars, if it did the cervids might stand a better chance

[Jingles]

Latest word from local warden is only areas where can not harvest road kills is in the 100 series GMU's. Quite possibly this will only affect the same GMU'S but was not clear simply state Eastern Region

[PAL]

Probably won't be able to harvest road kill. Does it affect the meat if they are killed by a vehicle? I had heard that the fear factor taints the taste, but maybe that is a myth.

[tristanbgilb]

I wonder if this means roadkill cannot be harvested.

[Jingles]

Probably gonna be a few upset bunny snugglers when they are told to leave the apparent orphaned fawns alone, let nature take it's course


Director’s statement on deer, elk, and moose rehabilitation in Eastern Washington
Director's statement Jan. 6, 2025

In an effort to prevent the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD) and consistent with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) CWD Management Plan, the Department will no longer allow permitted wildlife rehabilitators to accept deer, elk, or moose for rehabilitation in WDFW’s Eastern Region. This change is effective Jan. 7, 2025 until further notice. The impact of this change will likely be most visible this spring when permitted rehabilitators typically receive young cervids. 

CWD is a highly contagious disease spread through contact between animals or contaminated environments. Moving wildlife to rehabilitation facilities risks spreading disease to uninfected animals and new areas. Most animals infected with CWD do not show outward signs until the final stages of the disease, which may take months to years, during which time the animal can be infecting other animals. Suspending rehabilitation of species that may be infected ensures the disease is not spreading through rehabilitation efforts.  

CWD affects cervids - deer, elk, and moose - and is always fatal. If not managed, it has the potential to impact cervid populations, as well as recreational, economic, ecological, and societal values in Washington.  

Suspending the rehabilitation of cervids is the responsible action to protect Washington’s wildlife populations long-term.  

For your own safety and the best interest of wildlife, do not attempt to treat any sick, injured, or potentially abandoned wildlife yourself but instead call a permitted licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. WDFW relies on permitted wildlife rehabilitators to take in wild animals in need of care. We are grateful for their cooperation and services, which are key to WDFW’s conservation efforts. 

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities.