Might check with some of the locals and see if there was a die-off. We have experienced die-offs in the Gilmer/Doddridge county area going back to early 80's. Probable cause is Epizootic Hemhoraghic disease, or blue tongue. Either case, the population is reduced dramatically. The DNR will not acknowledge them, although when you talk to some of the conservation officers they will tell you about huge die-offs.