Nags Head Residents Urged to Keep an Eye Out for Sick Raccoons
Hey there, Nags Head! If you’ve been enjoying the beautiful fall weather and the stunning views of the Outer Banks, we’ve got a bit of news that might put a damper on your cozy days outdoors. The local police department has recently sent out an alert, and it’s not exactly what you want to hear during your pumpkin-spice latte season.
What’s Going On?
The Nags Head Police Department has noticed a noticeable spike in calls coming in about sick raccoons roaming around town. According to a biologist from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, some of these furry critters have tested positive for a nasty viral disease known as distemper.
Understanding Distemper
Now, what exactly is distemper? Well, it’s a viral disease that doesn’t just target raccoons. It can also affect other critters such as domestic dogs, foxes, coyotes, and even skunks. The disease spreads when animals come in contact with body fluids or droppings from an infected animal. So, getting too close and personal with these guys isn’t a good idea!
Time to Get Cautious!
Experts are advising that pet owners double-check their dogs’ vaccines to make sure they’re all up to date. Keeping your furry friends safe is a priority, and staying informed is key. Plus, if you see any sick raccoons around, it’s best to keep your children away from them. Sick raccoons can get a bit aggressive as the disease progresses. It’s not a pretty sight!
What to Do if You Spot One
If you happen to spot a sick raccoon in your yard, the police department wants you to take action. Be sure to contact the police department or your local Animal Control. They’ve got the experience and the tools to handle these situations properly.
And if you come across a dead raccoon? Here’s the scoop: the police recommend burying it deep enough so that curious pets won’t dig it up. After all, we don’t want any additional health risks cropping up in our beloved community.
Keeping Them Away
So, how do you keep raccoons from munching around in your yard? Here are a few tips to help discourage these little critters from making your patio their playground:
- Secure your trash cans with tight lids.
- Don’t leave pet food or birdseed outside overnight.
- Keep your yard tidy and free from any leftover food debris.
Need More Information?
If you’ve got questions about raccoons or any other wildlife concerns, you can reach out to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Their website and hotline (866-318-2401) are great resources if you need expert advice.
Stay Safe, Nags Head!
In these curious times, it’s always good to stay informed and prepared. So keep your eye out for any raccoon shenanigans and ensure your pets are loved and protected. Let’s work together to keep Nags Head safe and sound for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike!
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
