Elkhunter
New member
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is investigating the deaths of around 80 elk that have died mysteriously over the past couple of weeks. A coyote hunter southwest of Rawlins discovered two elk that were alive, but seemed to be unable to move on February 8th. Since the, officials have found dozens of dead and dying elk using an airplane and combing the area on foot and four wheelers. All of the elk exhibit similar symptoms, particularly the inability to move. The elk have been found lying down and unable to move, although many have been alert, and otherwise in good condition. A veterinarian from the state's research lab, as well as a toxicologist and a pathologist are working to determine what is causing the die-off. There is no evidence that the elk, which are mostly prime breeding-age cows, have been harassed or run until exhaustion. A herd of approximately 600 elk nearby appears to be healthy and unaffected. Several of the dead elk are being analyzed in the state vet lab to determine the cause of death and all avenues including disease, poison and other factors are being explored. Game and Fish officials are closely monitoring the situation and expect some preliminary lab results early next week. The dying elk are scattered over a 10-15 square mile area in elk hunting unit 108.