The Missouri Department of Conservation has issued a new warning concerning a new invasive species in the state.
“Be warned of our state’s newest invasive species threat—Zombies,” said the department in a bulletin. “While zombie management is largely left to the police, military and health agencies, conservation plays a role in protecting Missouri’s fish, forest and wildlife resources—and Missourians—from this invasive species.”
Department spokesman Joe Jerek says hunters, campers and others in the outdoors should know there is always the chance they may encounter a zombie while out in the field. Good preparation helps you know what to do if you encounter this newest invasive species in Missouri.
Jerek says they fit the definition of an “invasive species.” Zombies are not native to Missouri (if anywhere), they have no natural predators to keep their population growth under control, and they wreak havoc on the state’s natural environment.
Jerek said there are some key indicators that you have a zombie in view:
- It has a gray-green dull skin tone.
- It is wearing inappropriate clothing for the season or terrain (no coat or shoes, for instance).
- It has open wounds, other injuries and/or missing or damaged limbs but no sign of bleeding.
- It does not respond to verbal stimulus or exhibit any interest in its immediate surroundings.
- It is trying to eat you.
Zombie Hunger and Habitat
Zombies require meat and brains. While human is the preferred source, fish and wildlife are another ready source of nourishment.
While zombies are primarily found in populated areas, there are zombies in undeveloped rural areas, far from cities and towns. Evidence suggests that these zombies are transient, and moving to populated areas in search of their primary food source: brains. They are known to travel in packs or swarms, especially near food sources, but it is not uncommon to find solitary zombies in the field.
Cold weather slows down zombies. When the weather is below freezing, zombies may “hibernate” under leaf litter or underwater until warmer spring weather.
Jerek advises that a tree stand is an important tool in protection from zombies.
“A tree stand is a readily defensible position, but keep in mind that free-standing tree stands can be toppled by a small pack of zombies. Follow manufacturers’ instructions when setting up your stand. There are unconfirmed reports that some zombies may be capable of climbing tree stands.
Always practice proper tree stand safety and wear a safety harness. Falling from a tree stand can injure you or make you dead. Falling from a tree stand into the gaping maw of a zombie can make you undead.”
Anglers should note that Jerek advises that if you snag a zombie, cut it from your line as soon as possible.
