Wildlife Agency Urges Hunters to Report Deer Behavior Changes for CWD Assessment

The Louisiana Legislature convened on September 4, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) affecting deer populations. The meeting focused on the transmissibility of CWD, its symptoms, and the importance of public awareness in managing the disease.

CWD is a neurological disease that affects deer and is known to be transmissible from animal to animal as well as through contaminated environments. Research has shown that CWD can persist in soil and potentially infect plants, raising concerns about its spread. While there is currently no evidence linking CWD to human illness, the disease poses significant risks to deer populations.

During the meeting, officials emphasized the importance of recognizing behavioral changes in deer as key indicators of CWD. Symptoms include severe weight loss, excessive salivation, and altered behavior, such as a lack of awareness of surroundings. Hunters and landowners were urged to report any deer displaying these symptoms, as they may indicate the presence of CWD.

The discussion also highlighted the testing process for CWD. Officials explained that the most effective way to confirm the disease is through testing specific lymph nodes in the deer. Hunters were encouraged to submit deer heads with a few inches of neck for testing to ensure accurate results.

The meeting concluded with a call for increased public vigilance and cooperation in monitoring deer health. As CWD continues to pose a threat to wildlife, the Louisiana Legislature aims to enhance awareness and response strategies to manage the disease effectively.