• —

Why are Raccoons in Colorado Acting Strange?

Residents of Greeley, Colorado, have been taken aback by a peculiar and unsettling phenomenon: raccoons wandering aimlessly in daylight, showing no fear of humans, and exhibiting an eerie glow in their eyes. This isn’t a Hollywood thriller; it’s a real health crisis emerging from the shadows. The culprit? Distemper, a virus more commonly associated with dogs, has become endemic among the raccoon population.

What is Distemper and How Does It Affect Raccoons?

Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that wreaks havoc on an animal’s nervous and respiratory systems. In raccoons, it manifests as a loss of fear towards humans, confusion, aggression, seizures, vomiting, and notably, glowing green eyes—a result of mineral deposits on their corneas reflecting light. Sadly, the condition is usually fatal for the raccoons that contract it.

Is There a Risk to Humans and Pets?

While the distemper virus cannot be transmitted to humans, it poses a significant risk to household pets, particularly dogs. Humans can inadvertently carry the virus on their clothes or skin after coming into contact with infected animals, spreading it to susceptible pets. As a precaution, the Greeley Police Department advises keeping pets and children away from raccoons displaying unusual behavior, particularly during daylight.

How Are Local Authorities Responding?

The situation in Greeley is part of a broader trend, with similar outbreaks reported in North Carolina and Wisconsin. To address the local crisis, the Greeley Police Department has issued clear guidance: avoid approaching the raccoons, do not feed them, and secure trash to prevent attracting wildlife. If you encounter a sick or dead raccoon, contact animal control rather than attempting to handle it yourself. The department has also listed private disposal services on its social media platforms for handling deceased animals.

How Can We Prevent the Spread of Distemper Among Pets?

For pet owners, prevention is key. The distemper vaccine is a core component of the canine vaccination schedule, offering a robust defense against the virus. The American Animal Hospital Association strongly recommends vaccination as part of routine pet care. Ensuring pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations is crucial in safeguarding them from this deadly disease.

What Should You Do If You See an Affected Raccoon?

Spotting a raccoon behaving abnormally can be distressing. As highlighted by wildlife expert Eric Brady, reports of raccoons with crusted eyes, stumbling, and appearing disoriented have become alarmingly frequent. “It’s heartbreaking,” says Douglas County resident Kelly Ruedeen, who witnessed a sick raccoon in her driveway. If you encounter such an animal, it’s essential to notify local animal control authorities who can manage the situation appropriately.

The Broader Implications: Why Should We Care?

The rise of distemper among wildlife is a stark reminder of the intricate balance within ecosystems and the potential for cross-species disease transmission. While distemper primarily affects raccoons and some other wildlife, the broader implications for public and animal health are significant. Awareness and preventive measures are vital in mitigating the spread of the virus and protecting beloved pets from a similar fate.

As the situation unfolds, staying informed and vigilant is critical. This isn’t just a raccoon problem—it’s a community issue that underscores the importance of preventive health measures and responsible interactions with wildlife. Let’s heed the warnings of authorities and do our part to keep our neighborhoods and pets safe.