Indiana reduces antlerless deer limits following EHD outbreak

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Bag limits for antlerless deer will be reduced in several southern Indiana counties this hunting season following an outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease.

EHD is a viral disease spread by tiny biting insects known as midges, or "no-see-ums." While often fatal to white-tailed deer, some animals do recover. Infected deer may appear disoriented and drool excessively.

Cases are most common in late summer and early fall. The spread of the disease typically worsens in years with heavy spring rainfall followed by dry, hot summers.

As a result, the antlerless bag limit in Jennings County will drop from four to two. Jackson, Scott and Jefferson counties will be reduced from four to three. Bartholomew, Martin and Switzerland counties will drop from three to two.

The statewide limit remains six. These changes do not apply to Deer Reduction Zones.

According to a news release from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, humans cannot contract EHD. The DNR encourages residents to report deer showing symptoms on its website and asks hunters to complete the Deer After Hunt Survey to report the condition of their deer’s hooves.

The impact of EHD will be evaluated after the deer hunting season and may make changes for the 2026-2027 season. Ongoing updates are available at IN.gov/EHD.

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Indiana reduces antlerless deer limits following EHD outbreak