2 Wolf Pups Die From Mosquito-Borne EEE Virus In Michigan Zoo

MICHIGAN — Two Mexican gray wolf pups at a Michigan zoo have died from the deadly mosquito-borne virus that has killed people and animals throughout the state. Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek said test results received this week confirm the pups that died in early September were killed by Eastern equine encephalitis.

"The zoo is working with local and state agencies to collect and analyze the mosquito population currently at the zoo," zoo officials said. "What is learned may benefit community-based mosquito control programs. Binder Park Zoo is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of the pups and the impact on Mexican wolf conservation, but our work towards preserving this critically endangered species will continue."

Zoo officials said that the pups were part of a litter born to a breeding pair of Mexican gray wolves on June 14 at the zoo. The surviving wolf pup and both parents appear healthy and are being monitored closely by the veterinarian and animal care staff.

"EEE is very, very rare in canines," zoo officials said. "The zoo animals that are susceptible to EEE (zebras, Przewalski’s horses and ostriches) are vaccinated annually against EEE but there is no approved vaccine for canines."

The EEE virus has been confirmed in humans or animals in at least 12 Michigan counties, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Three people in southwestern Michigan have died from the illness. EEE has also infected animals including nine horses, five deer and one donkey, according to reports.