Robb Russell, The Wildlife Pro, LLC
Are you uncomfortable when you associate the words of Wildlife & Disease? If not, you should be since nearly 30 infectious diseases common here in Florida can and may start with the wildlife that surrounds us in our very own local communities. These are disease that are easily transmitted freom animal to human and many of them can be even fatal if detected in latent stages. Many of us who handle wildlife are aware of the potential of a disease being present but many homeowners or parents don't thus the reason to share these words never handle wildlife, and never feed wildlife.
For example, live-trapping a nuisance raccoon with an in apparent infection of rabies or other disease, then transporting and releasing that raccoon in another area can be devastating to individuals in the new area, as it will likely enhance the spread of rabies or other diseases. That is the main reason it is illegal to transport wild-trapped, live raccoons in Florida. Current law in Florida as of July 1st, 2008 requires all nuisance wildlife may only be transported for purposes of euthanasia and both homeowner and professional are accountable to following the law.
Examples of Infectious Disease Agents
Rabies is probably the most notable and feared viral zoonotic disease. Rabies has been found in a number of Florida mammals including raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes, opossums, otters, bobcats, and panthers.The rabies virus is most commonly transmitted from the saliva of the infected animal into the bite wound of another. Raccoons and bats are probably the most important hosts because they live in close proximity to humans, although the percentage of infected individuals within an area might be quite low. Brucellosis in wild hogs and salmonellosis in a number of carnivores and other medium-sized mammals are two examples of bacterial zoonotic diseases. These are transmitted by direct contact, either by the handling of infected meat in the case of brucellosis, or contaminated feces in the case of salmonellosis. Histoplasmosis is caused by a fungus which lives in old buildings, attics and bat caves—especially in guano (feces) enriched soil. Transmission occurs by inhalation of fungal spores and has occurred in spelunkers who have explored Florida's bat caves.Toxoplasmosis is caused by a microscopic protozoan and is spread to humans by the handling of contaminated cat—such as bobcat—feces and by consumption of infected meat from deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
Transmission of Diseases from Wildlife to Humans
At least 30 different, infectious disease agents can be transmitted from Florida's wild mammals to humans— while a smaller number of infections can originate from birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Most of these disease agents can be avoided by following common sense practices such as
* minimizing contact with wildlife exhibiting unusual behavior (seen in animals with rabies),
* using gloves and washing hands after handling wild animals (salmonellosis, brucellosis, and toxoplasmosis), and
* cooking wild game well before consumption (toxoplasmosis).
What to do in Case of Exposure to a Diseased Wild Animal
If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to a diseased wild animal, you should contact your physician for treatment and advice If you suspect rabies, you should also contact your local animal control service or county public health office.
In short, there is nothing more wonderful then our opportunities to enjoy viewing Wildlife. Wildlife may appear cute and inviting but every encounter with any wildlife is also a opportunity for you or family members to become sick or even die from contact with them. If you hunt wildlife, minimize your contact by wearing gloves and dispose of the carcasses properly. If you find a orphaned, or sick animal or bird please leave it alone. You can find someone who rescues wildlife by searching the internet in your area or phone book but please the contact to actual professionals and keep your family safe and healthy.
Nature's wild animals are both cute and adorable when glimpsed from your kitchen window or encountered in the park. Sightings are followed by smiles and "oohs" and "aahs" as we rush our children to the window to watch their charming antics. But these same wild animals quickly lose their charm when these wild animals seek shelter within the cozy confines of your home. Wild animals wreak considerable havoc outside their natural setting, they carry pests and diseases that pose a very real threat to your family's health and safety.
As urban population's grow, so do our chances of human-wildlife conflicts. The Professionals at Anytime Animal Control are specially trained in wildlife management. We resolve human-wildlife conflicts using responsible techniques and methods to preserve the animals natural habitat.
What ever the situation. Anytime Animal Control and The Wildlife Pro, LLC has the knowledge, equipment, technology and commitment to professional resolve your conflicts with wildlife.
Should you require the service of a wildlife control professional in North Central Florida please remember to give me a call. You can find me through my web site, http://www.gainesvillewildliferemovals.com or http://www.anytimeanimalcontrol.com or phone me at 800-714-8727 .
