Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) biologists and game wardens are investigating an outbreak of infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC), commonly known as pinkeye, affecting invasive aoudad populations across portions of Jeff Davis, Presidio and Brewster counties.
According to TPWD, approximately 25 aoudad exhibiting severe symptoms — including partial or complete blindness — have been documented since December across an estimated 30-mile area spanning the tri-county region.
IKC is a highly contagious eye infection commonly seen in domestic sheep and goats but also documented in wildlife species. The disease typically spreads within herds and can range from mild symptoms, such as watery or irritated eyes, to severe cases that cause blindness.
Wildlife officials believe the current outbreak is likely associated with bacteria in the genus Moraxella, which can spread through environmental factors including flies, dust and close animal contact. Unlike livestock, there is no practical treatment available for free-ranging wildlife, and the disease generally runs its course within affected populations.
TPWD is asking landowners, hunters and residents to report sightings of aoudad or other wildlife showing possible symptoms — particularly eye cloudiness, discharge or apparent blindness — to local TPWD wildlife biologists to help track the spread and evaluate impacts on regional wildlife.
Officials also noted that pinkeye is relatively common and treatable in livestock. Ranchers and animal owners are encouraged to monitor sheep, goats, cattle and horses closely and consult a veterinarian if ocular symptoms develop.
Information on contacting local wildlife biologists is available through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
