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Parasite claims five transplanted elk in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says five of the elk brought in from Kentucky in March have died.  The elk have been under quarantine in Jackson County since arriving in the Badger State.  In April, one cow and four calves died from acute Babesiosis, a disease caused by a microscopic tick-borne parasite that attacks red blood cells.  The disease exists in Wisconsin so it is possible the animals were bitten by infected ticks after arriving in the state.

The remaining 21 animals are being closely monitored and are reportedly in good health.  The animals are scheduled to remain in the quarantine pen until at least mid-June.

The elk have been brought in as part of a multi-year effort to establish a herd in the Black River Falls area as well as build the herd in northern Wisconsin.