MARSHFIELD, Wis. — Sept. 9, 2026 — Wildwood Zoo is providing an update on its white-tailed deer herd following the loss of several animals this summer, including Grant, the zoo’s longtime buck.
Zoo officials said they recognize how much the community cares about the pasture animals and that the recent losses have been difficult for both staff and visitors. Grant died earlier this year, followed by two does.
As the zoo’s deer herd ages, some losses are a natural part of caring for older animals. However, Wildwood Zoo said each deer that has died has been tested for both Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and tuberculosis (TB).
According to the zoo, all test results were either negative or inconclusive, with the underlying causes of death consistent with old age.
CWD is an always-fatal neurological disease that affects cervids, including white-tailed deer. Infected animals can carry the disease for an extended period without displaying symptoms. Because of that, Wildwood Zoo tests every cervid that dies as part of its ongoing efforts to protect the health of the herd.
The zoo has also received questions from community members about whether additional deer will be brought to Wildwood Zoo and whether fawns could eventually become part of the herd.
At this time, there is no timeline for adding more deer. Zoo officials said any future additions will be carefully considered, with the health and welfare of the existing herd remaining the priority.
Wildwood Zoo is also reminding residents to use caution if they encounter a wild deer that appears sick. Signs of concern may include an unnatural head tilt, little fear of humans or other unusual or unhealthy behavior.
Anyone who encounters a potentially sick wild deer should contact the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources at 608-267-0866 and should not approach the animal.
Wildwood Zoo thanked the community for its continued support of the zoo, its animals and staff, and for the care and concern residents continue to show for the deer herd.