JACKSON — Rapidly rising flood waters along the Mississippi River and its tributaries are forcing white-tailed deer and other wildlife to seek refuge on lands with higher ground, which can often be nearby flood protection levees.

“When this happens, abnormally large groups of deer can sometimes be observed along levee systems and roads throughout the Delta region,” said Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Deer Program Coordinator Chad Dacus.

“People should not go out and look for deer on levees or try and herd or move them,” Dacus said. “These animals have been stressed by sometimes long movements from other areas. Deer and other wildlife may be forced into the water or try return to flooded areas when pressured. The best thing to do is to leave the wildlife alone.”

MDWFP conservation officers are working with other law enforcement agencies in flooded areas to help those affected by the rising waters. MDWFP Law Enforcement Bureau Chief Steve Adcock said the officers are working the flooded areas by boat and are assisting landowners. They’re also working with other law enforcement agencies to deter criminal activity.

Levees are vital to protecting communities from flood events, and often are maintained by local levee boards or similar groups. These levees are subject to closure during floods and may be patrolled by local law enforcement agencies. In addition, these areas may serve as bases of operation for local emergency management response.

“Our officers are patrolling these areas constantly to help anyone that needs assistance and to protect property and prevent looting,” Adcock said.