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3 Michigan deer hunters die of heart attacks within 48-hour period

A whitetail doe and her fawn keep an eye out from a field, in this June 14, 2023, file photo in Freeport, Maine. AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

At least three Michigan deer hunters have died of heart attacks during the current 16-day season, including two men who were trying to haul away the heavy animals, authorities said.

“I’ve never seen three people die in 48 hours from heart attacks while deer hunting before,” said Dr. William Morrone, the medical examiner for Bay, Midland, Tuscola, Arenac and Iosco counties in the state.

He said hunters need to better prepare themselves for the rigours of the outdoors.

“Deer season comes and bam: I have a rifle, I have a backpack and I’m trudging through the woods,” Morrone said.

Click to play video: 'Deer gives birth to 3 fawns in B.C. backyard sandbox'
Deer gives birth to 3 fawns in B.C. backyard sandbox

The hunters — men ages 57, 65 and 83 — died in Arenac and Tuscola counties. They’re just a fraction of the thousands of people participating in the traditional firearm deer season, which began Nov. 15.

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Morrone suggested the Department of Natural Resources should require proof of a physical for hunters.

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“Better diets, more activity and everybody should think about a physical before this,” he said. “Because deer hunting is a big deal in this state, but it’s also taxing the body.”

All kinds of deer are hunted across Canada, though the most popular target is the white-tailed deer. Hunting seasons vary from province to province, but they usually take place between August and November.

Click to play video: 'Deer attack prompts call for more signage in Kelowna neighbourhood'
Deer attack prompts call for more signage in Kelowna neighbourhood

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