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Beaver attacks in Maryland state parks

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2026-08-14 22:53 UTC → 2026-08-18 00:51 UTC · added removed

In Maryland, a series of beaver attacks has led to partial closures of state parks. At Cunningham Falls State Park in Frederick County, two separate attacks occurred within a two-week period in late July and early August. These incidents involved August involving a 13-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man; subsequent testing confirmed both animals were infected with the rabies virus. raccoon-type rabies. In response, the Maryland Park Service prohibited swimming, fishing, and boating in specific areas, including Hunting Creek Lake. Following these events, a A third attack occurred on August 13 at Seneca Creek State Park in Montgomery County, where a 10-year-old girl was bitten while canoeing. While park canoeing with a summer camp group. The girl sustained three lacerations to her upper leg and was treated at Suburban Hospital. In response, officials temporarily closed a portion approximately one mile of the trail and parking area near Berryville Road, they Road and the adjacent parking lot while searching for the animal. Maryland Department of Natural Resources official Joshua Tabora noted that beavers are typically shy and do not seek conflict unless something is wrong, suggesting aggressive behavior is often linked to rabies. While the Seneca Creek beaver has not been located, officials presume it may also be rabid. Despite the three incidents occurring within a single month, authorities stated there is no indication of a rabies outbreak. Authorities believe the Seneca Creek incident is unrelated to the confirmed an elevated rabies cases at Cunningham Falls due to the geographic distance. prevalence rate or a widespread outbreak in Frederick or Montgomery counties.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-18 00:51 UTC Beaver attacks in Maryland state parks
  2. 2026-08-14 22:53 UTC Beaver attacks in Maryland state parks

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