Oh Deer...

Tom and the boys removing a deer.

 

It's kind of sad here on the Palouse.  The white-tailed deer have contracted a virus called 'blue-tongue'.  It makes them very sick and then they die.  Just in the last week we have had 6 deer die on or near our property.  It sounds like they are all dropping off all over the place.

 

'Blue-tongue', from what I hear, is a virus that they get from drinking water that has been contaminated by a parasite.  It usually happens during years when there is little precipitation.  It's been a really dry year here.  We've heard it only affects the White-tail deer and not pets or people.

 

Winston and Daisy found this deer and Tom decided to get it away from the house before it started to decompose.  It's already been a bit smelly around from the other deer dying.

 

As much as the deer can be a nuisance to our yard and garden - or jumping out in front of your car - we really do like seeing them around, being well.  It's sad to see them suffering.  Last time blue-tongue happened here the herd of white-tail was nearly devastated.  I hope the herds will recover from this.