Decoding CWD: What Other Prion Diseases Tell Us About Zombie Deer

Decoding CWD: What Other Prion Diseases Tell Us About Zombie Deer

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is often called the “zombie deer disease” and has become one of the most talked-about threats in wildlife biology and hunting circles. But to really understand what’s happening in our deer and elk herds, we have to look at what we already know about other prion diseases: Mad Cow (BSE), Kuru, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), and Scrapie in sheep. In this episode, we explore how these known diseases can help us understand the mysterious behavior of CWD. We break down how prions work, how they spread, and why they’re so difficult to contain. From cattle pastures to deer camps, this conversation takes a deep look at the science behind prions and what it might mean for hunters, wildlife managers, and anyone who eats wild game. We talk about: *  What prions are and how they infect the brain *  Similarities and differences between CWD, Mad Cow, Kuru, CJD, and Scrapie * Transmission in wildlife and environmental persistence * What hunters should know about handling or consuming meat from CWD-positive animals * Theories on where prions come from and how they mutate * Why understanding these diseases matters for the future of hunting and conservation This isn’t a fear-mongering episode, it’s a fact-based discussion aimed at helping outdoor enthusiasts understand the bigger picture. We dig into current research, real-world implications, and the unknowns scientists are still chasing.

Birds of a Feather

In this episode, we sit down with local taxidermist Adam Hagenston to talk all things wings, feathers, and mounts. From field prep and bird care to the art and patience behind a quality mount, Adam breaks down the full process of turning your favorite hunt into a lasting piece of work. We cover everything from how to dispatch and handle birds, what separates a good mount from a great one, and why hunters choose to preserve their birds in the first place. Of course, we also share which birds we love to chase — and which ones we’d proudly hang on the wall. And in true Bovasin fashion, there’s a fair bit of out-of-stater griping, laughs, and the usual brotherly banter that makes the show what it is.

Season 3 Kickoff: Life Between Seasons

After a break since Season 2, we’re back behind the mics with a full recap of what we’ve been up to. From a successful spring turkey hunt to chasing bears, bowfishing adventures, and an unforgettable honeymoon in Belize filled with spearfishing and days on the ocean, this episode is all about catching up, swapping stories, and setting the stage for what’s next on the podcast.

Public Land or Private Plan? Montana’s Outdoor Bills Under Fire

In our Season 2 finale, we go deep into the wild world of Montana’s 2025 outdoor legislation. From elk management to public land access, drone bans to landowner perks. We break down the bills that could shape the future of hunting, fishing, and conservation in Big Sky Country. You’ll hear our honest opinions, hot takes, and a few rants about the policies we love and the ones that made us shake our heads. We’re talking HB 676, HB 907, HB 763, SB 270, HJ 24, and more. This one’s long, fiery, and full of laughs, but it’s also a serious look at the direction Montana is heading. If you care about public access, fair chase, and the soul of our outdoor lifestyle, this is the episode you can’t miss.

State of Change: The Wild, the People, and the Politics with Mia Anstine

In this episode, we sit down with renowned outdoorswoman and conservation advocate Mia Anstine — host of Mac Outdoors soon to be Mia’s Wild Range Report — to talk about the crossroads where tradition, nature, and policy collide. From hunting ethics and trophy respect to the shifting political landscape around Second Amendment rights in Colorado, Mia shares her seasoned perspective on what it means to be a responsible hunter in today’s rapidly changing world. We dive into the tragedy of the commons, the growing strain on outdoor spaces, and how an influx of new residents is reshaping states like Colorado. We even get into her recent javelina hunt near the Mexican border, how to protect your taxidermy from cloth moths, and what it really means when someone calls an animal a “trophy.” This one’s packed with insight, stories, and strong opinions — don’t miss it