UPDATE (6:16PM Friday, February 2)
As the Arizona Game and Fish Department continue their search for the gray fox with possible rabies, one neighbor said she's still enjoying the park and will keep an eye out.
Toni-Ann Inserra spends several days out of the week enjoying the park for a quick walk and meditation. She said while she hasn't seen the fox yet, it's important to call AZGFD and clear the area.
"One thing that we learn in Girl Scouts is if you see an animal that looks threatening then listen to your intuition," she said. "Just listen and feel the environment and situation."
AZGFD's Mark Hart said they won't be able to confirm if it's rabies until the animal is tested, but it's important to still keep away from the animal if it's acting aggressively.
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ORIGINAL STORY:
Arizona Game and Fish Department says it's looking for a gray fox that likely has rabies near Agua Caliente Park.
If you encounter the animal, report it as soon as possible to AZGFD at (623)236-7201.
Common behaviors seen in animals with rabies, according to AZGFD include:
- aggressive behaviors
- allowing humans to approach
- activity during abnormal hours
AZGFD says though there's no confirmed 'outbreak' of rabies in the area, four suspected rabid animals—a bobcat, skunk and two foxes—have been reported in the Tucson areas since late November.
One case of rabies has been confirmed, found in a bobcat in late November. AZGFD says rabies can only be confirmed in an animal after death.
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