04/08/2026
Bluetongue virus update!
There has been an increase in the number of cases of bluetongue recorded in recent weeks, predominantly in south west England but with cases identified elsewhere. As we move into the main deer seasons, it is important that deer stalkers across the UK are aware of the disease, understand the signs to look for, and know their legal responsibilities should they encounter a suspected case.
What is Bluetongue?
Bluetongue is a Notifiable Disease which affects ruminants, including cattle, sheep, goats and deer, as well as camelids such as alpacas and llamas. It is a viral disease spread by biting midges and can cause serious illness in affected animals.
Although deer can show signs of infection, they may also carry the virus without displaying obvious symptoms. This makes vigilance particularly important when observing deer during routine management activities.
Signs and symptoms
Signs of infection can include changes to the mucous lining of the mouth and nose. The tongue and lips may appear blue or black in colour. Animals may develop ulcers around the muzzle, swelling of the head, and inflammation around the eyes. Bluetongue can also affect the coronary band of the hoof, potentially causing lameness.
Further guidance on recognising the disease can be found on https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue
What should you do if you suspect an animal has bluetongue?
If obvious clinical signs are present and you suspect bluetongue, the animal should be humanely dispatched to prevent unnecessary suffering.
Any animal that is shot and suspected to be carrying the virus must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) without delay.
• England: Ring 03000 200 301
• Wales: Ring 0300 303 8268
• Scotland: Contact your local Field Services Officer (further details at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/get-help-with-animal-and-plant-health -apha-field-services )
• Northern Ireland: Ring 0300 200 7840 in or contact your local DEFRA Direct Regional Office https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/contacts/daera-direct-regional-offices
Bluetongue is a Notifiable Disease, and any suspicion of infection must be reported without delay. Failure to do so is an offence.
Once you have reported the suspected case, the relevant authority will advise you on any further action that may be required.
Transporting carcasses
At present there is no specific guidance relating to the movement of inspected deer carcasses within the UK. However, anyone transporting live deer should ensure they are familiar with any movement restrictions that may apply within Bluetongue controlled or restricted areas. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue-movement-licences-and-designated-slaughterhouses
Further Information
Further information on Bluetongue and other diseases affecting deer can be found in the BDS Field Guide to Deer Diseases https://bds.org.uk/shop/field-guide-to-deer-disease/
and through the latest guidance available on https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue-latest-situation
As deer managers, stalkers and land managers, we all have a role to play in identifying and reporting disease. Early reporting helps protect livestock, wildlife and the wider rural economy.
