CWD Found in Elk Near Sheridan

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department confirmed a cow elk has tested positive for chronic wasting disease in Elk Hunt Area 37, west of Sheridan.

The elk was harvested by a hunter in late December. CWD has been previously documented in deer in that area, but this is the first time an elk has tested positive.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is concerned about CWD and how it may affect the future of Wyoming’s deer. The disease is fatal to deer, elk and moose. Recent research in Wyoming and Colorado shows that it may pose a threat to deer populations in areas with a high prevalence of the disease.

Game and Fish personnel tested 5,280 CWD samples during this year’s hunting seasons, a significant increase from past years, and the department continues to evaluate new recommendations for trying to manage the disease.