Cold weather increases Wyoming wildlife deaths

CASPER, Wyo. – Increasing numbers of wildlife deaths across parts of Wyoming have been attributed to cold weather and record snowfall.

The Casper Star-Tribune reported Monday that herds of wild antelope and mule deer are struggling to find refuge from frigid temperatures and have been struck down by cold, malnutrition and car accidents after wandering onto roads to avoid large snow drifts.

A Game and Fish Department spokesman says the Jackson region’s record snowfall has also trapped elk and bison in areas where they do not normally winter.

Wildlife biologists say little can be done for hungry deer and antelope that can only digest certain forms of food.

Officials are asking residents to watch for wildlife on the roads and keep pet dogs from bothering animals already weakened by hunger.

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Information from: Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, http://www.trib.com