Deer Season 2025: Understanding EHD and Its Impact on Washington County Herds
Healthy Ohio Buck
As hunting season approaches here in Washington County, Ohio, many hunters are scouting fields, checking trail cams, and preparing for opening day. But there’s another factor in play this year that could directly impact the season — and it’s one we need to take seriously.
Reports of sick and dead deer are surfacing across the Mid-Ohio Valley, and experts confirm that Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is active in our area.
At MOV Drone Workz, we’re passionate about technology, the outdoors, and preserving the resources we all enjoy. As we’ve seen with our aerial drone surveys, the signs of EHD are already evident. This blog serves as a public service announcement (PSA) and a call for vigilance.
What Is Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD)?
EHD is a viral disease spread by biting midges, often called “no-see-ums.” While the virus does not affect humans, it can cause devastating effects in deer populations. Outbreaks typically begin in late summer and early fall, just before the first frost kills off the midge population.
In Ohio, EHD is considered one of the most common diseases of white-tailed deer. Washington County has seen cases in the past, but this year’s early reports suggest the outbreak could be more signific
Symptoms Hunters and Landowners Should Watch For
Deer infected with EHD may show symptoms within 7–10 days of being bitten. Signs include:
Disorientation – deer appear “tame” or lack normal fear of humans
High fever – animals often seek water to cool themselves and may be found dead near creeks, ponds, or rivers
Pronounced swelling – of the head, tongue, eyelids, or neck
Respiratory distress – open-mouth breathing or labored breathing
Sudden death – sometimes in otherwise healthy, mature deer
Unfortunately, the disease often progresses quickly, and many deer die within 36 hours after symptoms appear.
How EHD Impacts Deer Season
An outbreak doesn’t just affect this year’s herd numbers — it ripples through multiple seasons.
Population decline: High mortality in affected areas can thin herds significantly.
Buck availability: Hunters may notice fewer mature bucks in the field.
Fawn survival rates: Smaller, younger deer are also susceptible.
Movement disruption: Deer behavior may shift, impacting traditional hunting spots.
For hunters in Washington County, this means fewer healthy deer on the landscape and potentially lower success rates in the fall.
What Hunters and Landowners Can Do
You can’t stop EHD directly — but you can help slow its impact and assist wildlife officials in tracking outbreaks.
Report sick or dead deer immediately
Ohio Division of Wildlife reporting link: Report EHD cases here
Include location, date, and any observed symptoms
Avoid handling carcasses bare-handed
EHD is not harmful to humans, but safe handling is always best practice
Spread awareness
Share information with fellow hunters, neighbors, and local landowners
Keep realistic expectations
Herd numbers may be down in affected areas, and it’s better to go in prepared
The Role of Technology in Recovery
At MOV Drone Workz, we’ve seen firsthand how technology is changing the way hunters and conservationists approach the outdoors. Our thermal drones can detect heat signatures through dense brush, in open fields, and even in low-light or rainy conditions.
For hunters: If your shot isn’t perfect and a deer goes down in heavy cover, our drones can help recover it quickly and ethically.
For landowners: Thermal flights can help monitor herds and track abnormal deer behavior that may indicate EHD outbreaks.
Final Word
EHD is serious, but with awareness, early reporting, and responsible hunting practices, we can work together to minimize its impact on our local deer population.
As you prepare for this season, remember: hopefully your shots are straight and on target — but if they’re not, MOV Drone Workz is ready to help.
Our advanced thermal drones fly day or night, rain or shine, ensuring you don’t lose a trophy buck or waste valuable venison.
💡 Pro Tip for Hunters: Now is the time to schedule an early season herd analysis for your hunting grounds. Understanding how EHD may have impacted deer movement and population will help you prepare for what’s shaping up to be a challenging season.
Stay safe, stay sharp, and let’s protect our deer herds for seasons to come.
