After over a month in Jackson County, elk from Kentucky continue to adjust to their new surroundings
MADISON -- After over a month in Jackson
County, elk from Kentucky continue to adjust to their new surroundings with
help from Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources staff and their
partners.
Prior to arriving safely in Wisconsin March
26<http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/wildlifehabitat/documents/Jacksoncountyelkrelease
.pdf>, the elk were held for 45 days in Kentucky for initial disease testing
as part of a 120-day quarantine period. The elk currently reside in a
quarantine pen in Jackson County, where they will remain until at least
mid-June. When the quarantine period has ended and final disease testing is
completed, they will be released in Jackson County.
For the duration of their captivity in Kentucky and Wisconsin, the elk have
received expert care. Precautions taken include 24-hour monitoring,
veterinary care and oversight, routines to limit exposure to stress, and
daily monitoring and observations for any injuries or additional concerns.
In mid-April, a mortality event involving four calves and one adult cow was
promptly identified due to diligent 24-hour surveillance protocol. Following
a thorough investigation, the cause of death was attributed to acute
Babesiosis, a disease caused by a tick-borne parasite. While this parasite
has previously been identified in Wisconsin and other states, its impact on
both wild and captive elk is unknown.
Outside of this acute disease event, all five animals were in good
nutritional and physical health. DNR and partner staff will continue to
consult with specialists and work together to determine the best courses of
action available. The 21 elk currently housed within the Jackson County
quarantine pen will continue to receive 24-hour care, and the department
will monitor these elk with the animals' health as top priority.
While captivity can be stressful for wild animals, the department is taking
measures to assure that these elk continue to receive the best care possible
for the duration of their stay. The ultimate outcome of the first year of
translocation efforts will play out in the months ahead as the department
and partners continue to provide caretaking during quarantine and monitor
the herd after their release.
The department's agreement with Kentucky provides for a multi-year effort,
which will provide for flexibility in working with key partners to achieve
the ultimate goal of bringing a total of 150 elk to Wisconsin.
For more information regarding elk in Wisconsin, visit dnr.wi.gov and search
keyword "elk<http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/wildlifehabitat/elk.html>."