RHDV2 Spreads Through Wyoming’s Wild Rabbits, WGFD Calls for Public Assistance

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) urges residents to be vigilant and report dead rabbits as Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2) spreads through the state’s wild rabbit population.

Short Summary:

• RHDV2 is a highly contagious and fatal disease affecting Wyoming’s wild rabbits.
• WGFD calls for public assistance in reporting dead rabbits to monitor disease spread.
• Precautionary measures are recommended to prevent the virus from affecting domestic rabbits.

In recent months, Wyoming’s wild rabbit population has come under severe threat from a deadly and highly contagious virus, Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2). This virus, which primarily affects rabbits and hares, has seen a significant spread across various counties in Wyoming, prompting the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) to seek public assistance in reporting dead rabbits.

“Any rabbit could become infected with the disease; it could be a cottontail living in your yard or the one you see while hiking,” said Jessica Jennings-Gaines, a wildlife disease specialist with the WGFD. “Please report any dead rabbits you find.”

“RHDV2 does not pose a threat to humans, but humans can inadvertently spread the virus through their clothing or shoes,” Jennings-Gaines emphasized.

RHDV2, first identified in Wyoming in December 2020, has since been detected in numerous rabbits across eight counties in 2024. According to Jennings-Gaines, all of Wyoming’s lagomorphs, including game and nongame species like cottontail rabbits, jack rabbits, and pygmy rabbits, are potentially susceptible to RHDV2.

The virus causes severe internal bleeding, with initial indications often being sudden death or bleeding from the nose or mouth of the rabbits. Despite its lethal nature, the virus does not pose any risk to other domestic pets or livestock, though it remains fatal for domestic rabbits, posing a direct threat to those kept as pets or in rabbit farming operations.

“RHDV2 is a fatal disease of rabbits and hares, with an estimated 35-50% of infected wild rabbits succumbing to the disease,” said Jennings-Gaines.

WGFD emphasizes the importance of public assistance in monitoring and controlling the spread of RHDV2. Residents are encouraged to report any sightings of dead rabbits to their local wildlife biologist or game warden. The location of the carcass should be noted, and reports can be made by calling the Game and Fish Wildlife Health Lab at 307-745-5865 or the nearest WGFD regional office. Alternatively, reports can be submitted online via the WGFD survey website.

Preventative Measures for Domestic Rabbits

While RHDV2 does not affect humans, the virus can be inadvertently spread by humans. Therefore, WGFD advises pet owners and those who house domestic rabbits to implement stringent biosecurity measures. Protective clothing and thorough hand washing should be mandatory for visitors entering facilities containing rabbits. Additionally, care should be taken to prevent any contact between wild and domestic rabbits.

“To protect your domestic rabbits, ensure no wild rabbits can enter your facility or home. If you bring new rabbits into your environment, keep them isolated from existing ones until you can confirm they are free from the virus,” Jennings-Gaines recommended.

Given the disease’s fatal nature and the current spate of deaths among wild rabbits, it’s crucial for rabbit owners and wildlife enthusiasts alike to participate in these preventive measures proactively. The WGFD is also continuing its surveillance efforts to contain the disease and track its spread effectively.

For more information on rabbit diseases and how to care for domestic rabbits, you can visit Rabbits as pets and other related categories on BunnyEat.com. Our platform offers a wide range of resources for rabbit care, including Giant Sized Rabbits, Large Sized Rabbits, Medium Sized Rabbits, and Small Sized Rabbits.

Moreover, for up-to-date advice on Rabbits Diet and What can rabbits eat, BunnyEat.com continues to be the ultimate destination for all rabbit lovers.

Recently, the presence of RHDV2 was prominently observed in Riverton in the 2020-2021 period, with recent cases additionally emerging near Lander in 2023. Samantha Allen, a state wildlife veterinarian with the WGFD, highlighted the critical nature of these findings and reiterated the importance of public cooperation in combating this epidemic.

“The disease has been confirmed in multiple states including California, Nevada, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. Testing these carcasses is the only way to know if the disease is in Wyoming,” Allen noted.

Another concern that begs attention is that while RHDV2 specifically targets rabbits, other diseases like tularemia and plague, which can indeed affect humans, are also carried by rabbits. This necessitates caution and strict adherence to guidelines when encountering dead wild rabbits.

As the state grapples with this outbreak, the emphasis on community vigilance cannot be overstated. Wyoming’s rabbit population, which enriches the state’s biodiversity, faces a significant threat from RHDV2. Prompt reporting and stringent adherence to preventive measures can play a pivotal role in mitigating this crisis.

To further support the ongoing conservation efforts and stay updated with the latest information, the public is encouraged to engage with WGFD and other local authorities actively. Resources, guidelines, and reporting tools are readily available, ensuring every individual can contribute to these crucial efforts.

In conclusion, the current situation underscores the delicate balance between wildlife health and environmental stewardship. By taking proactive steps towards disease monitoring and implementing recommended safety measures, Wyoming residents can play a meaningful role in preserving the state’s rich rabbit heritage.