A skunk found on a residential property east of Eaton in Weld County, on August 5, has tested positive for rabies. This is the first skunk to test positive for rabies in Colorado since 2023. The skunk was observed displaying abnormal behavior in close proximity to livestock prompting the property owner to contact animal control and the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE). The skunk was submitted to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment laboratory for testing, and WCDPHE received positive results on August 6.
Rabies is a viral disease that is nearly 100 percent fatal once symptoms begin. It is spread to people and pets through bites and scratches of an infected animal. Rabies can infect many wildlife species including, foxes, skunks, raccoons, coyotes, and bats. In Colorado, bats and skunks are the most common carriers. Signs that a skunk may have rabies include unusual behavior like being active during the day, acting aggressively, or showing poor coordination.
