Deer with huge warts

Photo: Brenda Comeau

A Vernon deer has made it's way to Facebook chats on multiple occasions.

The deer clearly has big bumps covering much of its body and for many Vernonites this has raised concerns.

"It's a very typical condition called viral papilloma tolsus," said Helen Schwantje, wildlife veterinarian for the province. "It's basically a type of wart and it's not uncommon in deer species and can be seen in moose as well."

The deer is not in much pain if any says Schwantje.  She says the deer actually looks healthy judging by its antlers.

"The lumps tend to get regressed with time and actually will fall off," she says.

The virus is only transmitted between deer and moose. Other deer in the Vernon area could be affected by the virus as well but Schwantje says Vernonites shouldn't be worried.

The picture of the deer was posted to the Vernon Rant and Rave Facebook page.

For more information on wildlife health click here.