HARRISBURG, PA — In a concerted effort to safeguard Pennsylvania’s rabbit and hare populations, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has issued a call to action for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. With concerns mounting over Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2) and the distribution of snowshoe hares, the agency is seeking invaluable data from those in the field.
RHDV2 presents a significant threat to the state’s wildlife, given its highly contagious nature and potential to decimate local populations by up to 100%. The virus, which can persist in the environment for extended periods, necessitates immediate attention to prevent widespread outbreaks. The Game Commission urges anyone who encounters multiple dead rabbits or hares of unknown causes to report these findings promptly. Reports can be submitted via a dedicated hotline or through the Game Commission’s online Wildlife Health Survey tool.
While RHDV2 poses no risk to humans, it is crucial to remain cautious around potentially infected wildlife, as clusters of deceased animals may also signal diseases like tularemia or plague, which can affect human health. The emphasis is on early detection and the removal of carcasses to mitigate the spread of RHDV2. Notably, the virus has only made a singular appearance in Pennsylvania, detected in a domestic setting in Uniontown, Fayette County, and has yet to infiltrate wild populations.
Parallel to these efforts, the Game Commission is keen to gather data on snowshoe hare populations and their adaptive coloration patterns. The agency’s snowshoe hare cooperator program serves as a crucial vehicle for obtaining valuable data. Now entering its third year, the program operates as follows: interested hunters may participate by submitting their CID number, name, mailing address, and phone number via email to hares@pa.gov.
Upon registration, participants receive a pocket card, which is essential for recording pertinent information. This includes the dates on which hares are hunted, the specific counties or Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) involved, the total hours spent hunting, as well as the number of hares flushed and harvested. This systematic data collection approach not only enhances our understanding of hare populations but also informs conservation strategies.
Pennsylvania is unique in reporting brown snowshoe hares during winter months, with instances of mixed pelts featuring brown eye rings and ear tips. The cooperator program aims to map hare distribution more accurately and understand these adaptive changes, which have implications for wildlife management strategies.
The Game Commission’s appeal extends beyond avid hunters to all who appreciate Pennsylvania’s diverse wildlife. By contributing data, individuals play a crucial role in shaping effective conservation strategies and ensuring the health of rabbit and hare populations statewide. This collaboration underscores the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation, highlighting a shared responsibility in preserving Pennsylvania’s natural heritage for future generations.
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