Maryland Closes More of Cunningham Falls State Park After Second Beaver Attack
Maryland's Cunningham Falls State Park has been forced to close additional areas after a second rabid beaver attack on a park visitor. This unexpected wildlife incident highlights the rare but serious threat of animal rabies in public recreation zones, making for a bizarre and cautionary tale. It's a surprising story that combines nature's unpredictability with public safety concerns, resonating with a general interest in unusual news.
The Lowdown
Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland has taken drastic measures, including closing multiple sections, following two separate incidents where visitors were attacked by rabid beavers. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is actively investigating a potential rabies outbreak among the local beaver population to ensure public safety.
- On July 26, a 13-year-old swimmer was bitten by a beaver, which was subsequently euthanized and tested positive for rabies.
- Less than two weeks later, on August 5, a 19-year-old fisherman sustained a bite to his ankle from another beaver, which also tested positive for rabies.
- Following the first attack, swimming was prohibited in Hunting Creek Lake; after the second, the Houck Day Use Area, adjacent boat ramp, and Big Hunting Creek were also closed.
- The DNR has escalated its response, dismantling a beaver lodge and instituting both daytime and nighttime surveillance to remove any additional beavers in the area.
- Beaver attacks on humans are considered rare, typically involving rabid animals, with Maryland's last recorded cases of rabid beaver bites occurring in 2021 and 2015.
- Visitors who may have had contact with a beaver are advised to contact the Frederick County Health Department immediately.
These closures and increased monitoring efforts underscore the DNR's commitment to protecting park visitors while wildlife officials work to contain and understand the unusual rabies activity among the park's beaver population.