Raccoon tests positive for rabies at Pennsylvania recreational area

MONROE COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) — A raccoon recently tested positive for rabies at a popular Pennsylvania recreation area.

The National Park Service said a raccoon had been seen acting strangely at Smithfield Beach’s commercial launch in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in the Poconos earlier this month.

Officials said the raccoon later tested positive for rabies and they remind visitors to keep their distance from wildlife.

“While rabies is not the only circumstance that causes animals to act erratically, visitors should consider it a possibility any time an animal is acting out of the ordinary,” the National Park Service said. “Animals may act aggressively due to other illness or injury besides rabies, or if they feel threatened or are protecting young. Giving all wildlife their space and respect will keep everyone safe.”

If you see sick or dead wildlife at the Delaware Water Gap, the National Park Service says to call their non-emergency line at 570-426-2457.