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Rabies Alert: Bats Test Positive at Fresno Zoo
19 Jul
Summary
- Two deceased bats found on zoo grounds tested positive for rabies.
- No animals, staff, or guests at the zoo have been infected.
- Rabies is endemic to the Fresno region, with 16 bat cases last year.
Two wild bats discovered on the grounds of Fresno Chaffee Zoo have tested positive for rabies. The deceased animals were found in different locations on the zoo's property during routine inspections. Zoo officials confirmed that these bats were not part of the zoo's animal collection and that none of the zoo's animals have displayed any signs of illness.
Staff at the zoo maintain rigorous daily monitoring of all animals, which are also vaccinated against rabies. Employees are trained to handle potential rabies cases, ensuring swift collection and testing of deceased animals. The discovery serves as a reminder that rabies is endemic to the Fresno region, with the county reporting 16 confirmed cases in bats in 2025.
The California Department of Public Health also monitors other animals like skunks and domestic pets for rabies. The zoo emphasizes that guests should avoid approaching any dead animals and instead report them to zoo staff or local animal control for safe handling.
