Mississippi wildlife biologists, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials, and researchers from Mississippi State University have been conducting Deer Herd Health Evaluations across the state.
The annual assessments monitor reproduction, body condition, and disease prevalence in mature female deer aged 2.5 years and older. The evaluations take place on Wildlife Management Areas, state parks, U.S. military lands, and other public and private properties.
Biologists collect data on breeding activity to determine peak rut timing, as well as information on disease, including parasite loads and testing for epizootic hemorrhagic disease and chronic wasting disease. They also record body condition metrics such as weight and Kidney Fat Index.
This data helps track herd health over time and identify potential issues like low body weights or high parasite loads. All deer harvested during these evaluations are donated to charitable organizations, including Hunters for the Hungry and local food banks.
