Science

30 dead deer found at Utah landfill starved, died of disease

02 of June 2019

AP Photo,This undated photo provided by the Summit County Solid Waste Collection Office on Friday, May 24, 2019, shows deer near a landfill at the Three Mile Canyon Landfill in Coalville, Utah. The Division of Wildlife Resources says they are investigating the cause of death for more than 30 deer near the landfill in northeast Utah. Summit County Solid Waste Division superintendent Tim Loveday says deer come to the landfill seeking food but perish after eating trash blowing from the landfill. He says the recent spike in the state's deer population and the brutal winter Utah recently experienced has meant more deer are dying of starvation and cold. Summit County plans to add a litter fence and cover the landfill from wildlife. (Summit County Solid Waste Collection Office via AP)

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah officials have determined that more than 30 deer found near a landfill in northeastern Utah died from starvation, diseases and other causes.

The Division of Wildlife Resources said Friday said officials found plastic bags and latex gloves in some of the deers’ remains but say the main culprit for their deaths was a harsh winter.

Officials learned of the dead deer after hikers shared photos of them strewn across a road near the landfill in the small city of Coalville.

Summit County Solid Waste Division superintendent Tim Loveday said deer come to the area seeking food but become sick after eating trash blowing from the landfill.

Hadley said officials are working to craft a plan to help prevent deer from getting into the landfill.