Which wildlife species ranks first for incidence of rabies in the U.S.?

While raccoons are a significant vector for rabies in certain regions, particularly in the eastern U.S., bats actually rank first for the incidence of rabies in the entire country. Bats carry the rabies virus and can transmit it to other wildlife, pets, and humans. Their ability to fly and their nocturnal behavior make them more likely to come into contact with other animals and humans, increasing the risk of transmission.

Raccoons are known to have high rabies prevalence in their populations and are often associated with rabies outbreaks, particularly in urban areas. However, the overall number of reported rabies cases attributed to bats surpasses that of raccoons. Skunks and foxes also play roles as rabies carriers, but they do not rank as high as bats and raccoons.

Understanding the dynamics of rabies transmission in wildlife is essential for public health and wildlife management efforts, highlighting the importance of bats in the epidemiology of rabies across the U.S.