Colorado hunters warned of zombie deer while chronic debilitating disease spreads

Colorado hunters are advised to wait for the next deer hunting season in search of the zombie deer.

The disease of chronic wasting, a contagious disease that kills deer, has now spread to 24 states, including Colorado. And, even if it has not happened yet, there is concern that this will spread to humans who hunt and eat meat.

The disease can lead to drastic weight loss, lack of coordination, and droopy ears, which has become known as "zombie deer disease."

Colorado imposes mandatory tests for deer harvesting in some areas, according to Jason Clay, Colorado Parks and Wildlife's information officer. In the last hunting season, the area that includes Boulder County was an area where testing was mandatory.

"Chronic wasting is a growing concern throughout Colorado," Clay said. "We are looking for adaptive management tactics to help prevent the spread of CWD and control it in herds already affected. Control of chronic debilitating disease is critical to the long-term health of our herds. "

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