Rabid Skunks found in Weld County

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Two Skunks have tested positive for rabies on February 3 and February 5 on a residential property in southern Weld County.

“Skunks are not necessarily nocturnal and you may see them during the day but if it exhibits aggressive behavior or loss of motor skills it may be sick. Spring time they are more active” said Kristeen Bevel, Weld County Environmental Health Specialist.

e property owner was concerned about the behavior of the skunks in close contact with pets and livestock, so the skunks were captured and turned over to animal control and the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment.

e health department tested the skunk and received positive results for rabies on February 6 and February 7.

According to health o cials, rabies is fatal if left untreated. Bats and skunks are the two main carriers for rabies in Colorado, so when they come into contact with other wild animals — foxes, skunks, raccoons, coyotes and bats — these animals could become infected. Not all skunks carry rabies but if a