AR-News: (MD - US)Another article on Bucky the deer who will be killed by DNR

[Snugglezzz at aol.com]

Md. Officials: 'Bucky' To Be Tranquilized, Examined

POSTED: 12:27 p.m. EST February 19, 2004
UPDATED: 12:39 p.m. EST February 19, 2004

HAGERSTOWN, Md. -- A couple said Maryland state officials told them a wild deer living on their enclosed porch must be destroyed. 

Kevin and Starla Hall found the young deer on a street in their neighborhood Sunday. The deer seemed injured and confused, so the Halls took him in and named him Bucky.  

The Halls have been searching without success for a refuge or a petting zoo where Bucky can continue his rehab. But the Halls say the state's Natural Resources Police told them on Wednesday that Bucky must be taken to be euthanized and tested for diseases. 

State Department of Natural Resources spokeswoman Heather Lynch said that the DNR plans to tranquilize the deer Thursday afternoon and then will be taken to a lab. After an examination, a decision will then be made whether to euthanize the animal. 

Lynch said, "Despite the great intentions of this couple, it's always problematic when humans interact with wildlife. We don't know if this deer has diseases, and unfortunately, it can't be tested for Chronic Wasting Disease and rabies without putting the deer down first. Given its docile behavior, we believe the deer is acting strangely -- in that it is not showing fear for humans. Natural Resources Police are continuing to work with the Halls to figure out the best solution for the deer. Unfortunately, that may be putting the deer down." 

Lynch said the department has received "hundreds" of calls from across the nation in regards to the case. 

Hall said that the only way Bucky won't be taken is if he is gone from their home on Thursday. He said, "The deer won't be here." 

Hall said that he expects authorities will arrive at his home later Thursday with a search-and-seizure warrant to take Bucky and he says he expects to be arrested.
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