The Departmental Federation of Hunters of Charente-Maritime and the SAGIR network of the French Office for Biodiversity (OFB) are raising concerns about the myxomatosis epidemic affecting hares. A new strain of the virus, first detected in Spain, is spreading and causing notable symptoms in the animals.
Hares are primarily showing skin lesions, such as hair loss on the head and ears, and nodules on their legs, accompanied by general weakness. Transmission occurs through direct contact and via biting insects. Recovering animals contribute to the gradual development of collective immunity.
Given these field observations and to avoid placing additional pressure on the species, the ACCA of Andilly has decided not to open hare hunting on its territory for the current season. This precautionary measure aims to promote the recovery of affected individuals and preserve populations for the future.
It is recommended not to handle sick or dead animals with bare hands due to the risk of bacterial superinfections. It is also advised to protect domestic animals, particularly by vaccinating farmed or pet rabbits in the natural territory of ANDILLY, and to avoid any contact between pets and sick animals.
Systematic reporting of any sick or dead animal to the ACCA or the SAGIR network is crucial for precise monitoring of the health dynamics. The usual abundance counts will be maintained according to the planned schedule to rigorously assess population changes.
