Farm virus 'can infect wild animals'

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-21452990



A livestock virus sweeping through British sheep flocks and cattle herds has infected wild deer, say scientists.

The disease, which is spread by insects, causes birth defects in lambs and can reduce milk yields in cattle.

Outbreaks have been reported in farm animals in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Spain and the UK.

European scientists say wild deer can catch the virus, and are calling for the impact on wildlife to be monitored.