7/08 Game and Fish says small game hunters should be aware that Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type 2, or RHDV-2, is widespread this year. The virus first appeared in the state in 2020 and resulted in a large population decline across all species of rabbits in the state. Officials say while the meat is safe to eat, hunters are encouraged to remove carcasses from the field and properly dispose of them. The virus is not known to affect other animals, but predators and scavengers, who investigate carcasses, can easily spread the virus. For more information, go to www.azgfd.com.
