Canine distemper virus in raccoons is transmitted through close contact among their population and can spread to other predators including foxes and coyotes. Occasional, cyclic outbreaks can occur among raccoon populations.
Raccoons exhibiting symptoms of distemper may approach people, be active during the daytime and appear lethargic or disoriented, stumbling or wandering about aimlessly. Though aggressive behavior is not a symptom of distemper, any raccoon may become aggressive if it feels threatened. Persons who notice a raccoon exhibiting unusual behavior should not approach the animal. While canine distemper does not pose a threat to human health, it can be transmitted to dogs. Though most dogs not vaccinated for distemper, any that are not are at risk for a potentially fatal disease.
Persons who see a raccoon behaving in the manner described above or find a dead raccoon should notify the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regional wildlife office at (631)444-0310.
The William Floyd Estate grounds are currently closed to the public. The estate grounds are open seasonally from May 1 until the Sunday after Thanksgiving. But raccoons, and potentially foxes that may prey on them, do not observe the closure dates so anyone in the area should be aware and in control of their pets.
Raccoon pawprints in sand, Fire Island National Seashore / NPS
Two raccoons found dead at New York's William Floyd Estate, part of Fire Island National Seashore, tested positive for Canine Distemper Virus. As a result, the National Park Service is warning the public about the potential threats to pets in the area. Park staff observed the raccoons behaving oddly before they discovered those and other raccoons dead on the property. The dead raccoons were foind to have CDV, but tested negative for rabies.
Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places
