Turkeys in Maine have been found with a virus. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife tells WNSX the virus is called Lymphoproliferative Disease Virus (LPDV). It causes minor to extreme lesions on a turkey's head and legs and is thought to spread by skin contact or mosquito bites.

The disease poses no risk to humans, but there is a potential for bacterial infection if the bird is handled improperly. If you shoot a bird like the one pictured, IFW asks that you contact the Department of Public Safety in Augusta at (800) 452-4664 or Wildlife Biologist at one of the numbers listed below:

Ashland – (207) 435-3231 Bangor – (207) 941-4466 Enfield – (207) 732-4132 Gray – (207) 657-2345 Greenville – (207) 695-3756 Jonesboro – (207) 434-5927 Sidney – (207) 547-5318 Strong – (207) 778-3324

After examining the bird, the Department staff member will determine your eligibility to harvest another turkey.

Photo courtesy of MIFW.

Thanks to WNSX 97.7

 

 

TCC -  I was alerted to this by TCC Team Member Erin Morse. - Thanks Erin!