Source: ABC 7 Chicago
A South Jersey man is urging people to exercise caution around wild animals after he was attacked by an apparent rabid raccoon in the Elsmere section of Glassboro, New Jersey. Kevin Tucker said he first heard unusual screeching noises coming from nearby woods before spotting the animal’s bright yellow eyes. As he approached his trailer, the raccoon suddenly charged, knocking him backward and biting his right leg. The animal was eventually captured after reportedly chasing several other residents in the neighborhood.
Tucker said another witness described the raccoon as having glassy eyes and saliva dripping from its mouth, both signs commonly associated with rabies, although authorities have not confirmed the disease or released test results. Tucker was treated at a hospital following the attack. Officials continue to remind the public to avoid contact with wild animals, keep pets current on rabies vaccinations, and seek immediate medical attention while notifying animal control or public health authorities after any bite or scratch.