2 days ago
Dead bison in N.W.T.'s North Slave region might have had anthrax
Traffic on Highway 3 may be reduced to one lane over the weekend while crews plan to burn a bison carcass suspected of having an anthrax infection.
In a news release Friday, the N.W.T. Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) said the possible anthrax case was found on the highway between Fort Providence and Behchokǫ̀.
Lab results are still pending, but the statement said crews plan to burn the carcass on the side of the road Saturday and Sunday, if conditions allow. Incinerating the carcass prevents scavenging and the risk of spreading the disease if it is confirmed to be anthrax.
ECC warned that there may be smoke and periods of low visibility near the site and asked drivers to reduce speed and follow traffic control directions but not to stop at the site.
Anthrax is a naturally occurring disease in wildlife that can be dangerous to people and animals. The territory has seen anthrax outbreaks among bison in the past. Dozens of animals died in 2023, and hundreds died in 2012.
ECC will be conducting aerial and ground surveillance for bison carcasses and sample other carcases.
Anyone who comes across a sick or dead bison should stay away from the animal and report it to the wildlife emergency number at 1-866-762-2437.
