Wildlife diseases reported in Borken and Karlsruhe

Authorities in Germany are reporting outbreaks of infectious diseases affecting wildlife in different regions. In the Borken district, tularemia (also known as rabbit fever) has been confirmed following the deaths of four field hares in Borken and Gescher. Officials warn that the disease can be transmitted to humans and other animals. Pedestrians are advised to maintain distance from dead animals and report findings to local hunting leaseholders or the lower hunting authority.

In Karlsruhe, officials suspect myxomatosis is responsible for an increasing number of dead wild rabbits, particularly in the Günther-Klotz-Anlage area. Myxomatosis is a viral disease spread through direct contact, mosquitoes, and fleas, often proving fatal for wild rabbit populations. While such outbreaks are common in late summer, the current cases have persisted into October. Local authorities are monitoring rabbit populations and requesting public assistance in reporting sightings to help identify affected areas.