Arcata Police Shoot Two Rabid Foxes

Normally nocturnal foxes were acting abnormally, according to officer

Humboldt Sentinel
12/26/08
By Sentinel Staff

ARCATA -- Two foxes strongly suspected of rabies infection fell under the gun of the police today.

At about 1 p.m. the Arcata Police Department received word of two foxes acting strange behind a residence on the 800 block of Bayside Road. The officer who responded located both foxes, who were “acting abnormally” according to the APD release, and dispatched them.

This incident may well be connected, according to APD sergeant Sligh, to the Oct. 24 attack on a custodian at Jacoby Creek School by a rabid fox. The school employee was promptly treated for rabies exposure and is recovering.

Police officials warn local residents that animals infected with rabies may exhibit abnormal behavior, such as acting aggressive towards people when they normally shy away from people. They may also be unsteady while walking or running and appear intoxicated. A normally nocturnal animal being out during the day is suspicious and maybe a sign of infection.

If you see an animal acting strange, stay away from the animal and call your local law enforcement agency. The APD can be reached at (707) 822-2428.