AR-News: (US SD) Mysterious Wyoming elk deaths solved - animals died after feeding on lic

[Animalara2003 at aol.com]

SARAH COOKE

Associated Press


CHEYENNE, Wyo. - A lichen native to the Rockies has been blamed for the 
deaths of at least 300 elk in southern Wyoming, a mystery that had baffled wildlife 
scientists and cost the state thousands of dollars, the state said Monday.
Wildlife veterinarians had suspected the lichen after finding it in the 
stomachs of many of the elk that died in south-central Wyoming.
To confirm their suspicions, thee elk were fed the lichen at research 
facility. One collapsed and was unable to rise Sunday, the Wyoming Game and Fish 
Department said. A second elk also started stumbling and a third is expected to 
succumb quickly, officials said. All three will be euthanized.



full story:

http://www.aberdeennews.com/mld/aberdeennews/news/8248683.htm 
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