HOUSTON (AP) - Wildlife
reproduction in Texas is down because of one of the worst droughts in state
history, and biologists worry that many adult animals will die if the dry
conditions persist through winter and spring.
Preliminary reports
obtained by The Associated Press from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
provide a glimpse at how the drought is affecting deer, prong-horned antelope,
quail and other animals. The data comes from annual statewide surveys.
In a 30-mile area of
the Panhandle, biologists found 76 white-tailed deer and zero babies. Nearby,
they found three quail on a 20-mile stretch, compared to 15 in a normal year.
In South Texas, a biologist reports a lack of water on some ranches is "killing
deer like flies."
Experts say it could be
years before the populations recover.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material
may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
All content ©Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and KCBD, a Raycom Media Station. 