A string of rabid beaver attacks has forced the partial closure of popular state parks in Maryland. Officials say beavers, normally docile plant-eaters that avoid people, have turned aggressive after contracting rabies, which affects their brains and strips away their fear of humans. The first attack came July 26th at Cunningham Falls State Park near Thurmont, where a 13-year-old swimmer was bitten and suffered injuries to his hands and chest, serious enough that he was airlifted to Johns Hopkins Hospital. On August 5th, a 19-year-old man was bitten on the ankle while fishing at the same park.
Both beavers were captured, euthanized, and tested positive for rabies. In response, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources closed large sections of the park, including its lake, creek, and boat ramp, banning swimming, fishing, and boating until it is deemed safe. A third attack struck at Seneca Creek State Park, where a 10-year-old girl canoeing with a summer camp was bitten on the leg. That beaver escaped after counselors intervened, and officials closed a mile of nearby trail.
Source: NY Post
