08/27/2026
Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) Suspected to be responsible for the local white-tailed deer deaths
A recent increase in deer deaths have been reported on the Flathead Reservation from the Hot Springs, Valley View and multiple Mission Valley areas. The CSKT Wildlife Management Program suspects that a hemorrhagic disease (EHD), is responsible for these white-tailed deer deaths.
The disease is suspected to be in these areas, as the disease can persist in an area for 2-3 years after an initial outbreak. CSKT Wildlife is waiting for results from samples taken last week, and will keep the public up to date on our cskt.org website. Though it is a viral disease transmitted by biting midges, it is not contagious to humans but can influence deer and elk species. Outbreaks tend to occur near water sources in late-summer and early fall when certain small fly species emerge. It is not necessary for the public to report additional dead deer suspected of EHD in suspected or confirmed areas, but potential outbreaks observed in new areas of the Reservation should be reported by emailing [email protected] or calling the Wildlife Conflict Call number at 406-275-2774.
It is important to note that, while the disease can cause significant die-offs in localized deer populations, the outbreaks are usually short-lived and not wide-spread. Effected areas are generally localized and not spread across large areas. Meat from animals that appear healthy at the time of harvest remain safe to eat when properly cooked, though please consider having any harvested animal tested for Chronic Wasting Disease.
