sick/dead coons?

[fishboy1]

Found a coon laying in the field this afternoon with a buzzard standing by. Coon was still alive and I couldn't tell what was wrong with it. :poke:
Went 200 yds to the creek and there was a full grown dead coon lying in the water. Looked like he had been there at least a couple days.

Is this something to be concerned about?
Should I call somebody or just let the buzzards have them?

 

[scn]

Please give the Region 3 Wildlife Manager a call on Monday. I'd guess distemper, but it could be rabies in that area as well.

 

[fishboy1]

Thanks. Should I go collect the coon and put it in a bucket or something?

 

[scn]

I don't think so. To test for rabies would require the head to be taken off by a vet before it dies. I wouldn't want you or your family exposed to that if it is rabies. I'm not sure about testing for distemper.

If they are interested in seeing what is going on, they will probably want to set some live traps so they can euthanize and properly test.

 

[fishboy1]

Thanks! I think we should keep the dog close to the house for a while. Don't want him sniffing around that coon if its rabies or distemper.

 

[Biggun4214]

USDA tests coons, foxes, coyotes, and skunks here. Health Dept. won't check an animal just because it is sick. East Tenn. has had lots of sick skunks and coons. No one checks for distemper.