Important Information About Rabies-Vector Species
Rabies-Vector Species in California
In California, the primary rabies-vector species include:
If you encounter a bat, skunk, or fox that appears injured, sick, or orphaned:
Signs That Require Immediate Professional Help
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, animal control, or local health department if the animal:
Special Guidance for Bats
Bats deserve extra caution because:
If a bat is found:
What You Can Do
Why These Rules Matter
Rabies is preventable—but only when handled correctly. Improper handling puts people at risk and often results in the animal being euthanized unnecessarily. Following these guidelines protects human health, public safety, and wildlife.
When in Doubt, Do Not Touch
If you are unsure whether an animal is a rabies-vector species, assume it could be and do not handle it. A phone call to the right professional is always the safest first step.
Thank you for helping wildlife responsibly and safely.
In California, the primary rabies-vector species include:
- Bats
- Skunks
- Foxes (rare, but possible exposure risk)
If you encounter a bat, skunk, or fox that appears injured, sick, or orphaned:
- Do NOT touch the animal
- Do NOT attempt to capture or contain it
- Do NOT handle with gloves, towels, or tools
- Do NOT allow children or pets near the animal
Signs That Require Immediate Professional Help
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, animal control, or local health department if the animal:
- Is active during unusual hours (especially nocturnal species in daylight)
- Appears disoriented, aggressive, or unusually tame
- Is unable to fly or move normally
- Was caught or mouthed by a dog or cat
- Has had any human or pet contact
Special Guidance for Bats
Bats deserve extra caution because:
- Rabies exposure can occur from very small bites or scratches
- Contact may happen without a person realizing it
If a bat is found:
- In a home
- In a room with a sleeping person
- In a room with a child, elderly person, or incapacitated individual
What You Can Do
- Keep people and pets safely away
- Close doors or block off the area if indoors
- Observe from a distance
- Contact NorCal Bats in Davis, CA (BWR is not currently able to take in bats) or animal control agency for instructions
Why These Rules Matter
Rabies is preventable—but only when handled correctly. Improper handling puts people at risk and often results in the animal being euthanized unnecessarily. Following these guidelines protects human health, public safety, and wildlife.
When in Doubt, Do Not Touch
If you are unsure whether an animal is a rabies-vector species, assume it could be and do not handle it. A phone call to the right professional is always the safest first step.
Thank you for helping wildlife responsibly and safely.
Bidwell Wildlife Rehabilitation serves Butte, Colusa & Glenn counties in Northern CA. Here is a list of all licensed rehab facilities in California.
