Bat found inside Grand Canyon National Park tests positive for rabies

PHOENIX — A bat found by biologists inside Grand Canyon National Park earlier this month has tested positive for rabies, officials said Monday.

The animal was collected along the Colorado River in mid-August, according to a press release from the National Park Service.

Anyone who has had physical contact with a bat is asked to seek medical attention.

Humans can contract rabies through an animal’s saliva from a bite or scratch.

Bat-human interactions typically increase in the summer months, NPS said.

Rabid bats have been documented in 49 states, including in Arizona.

Anyone who observes an animal acting erratic in the park is asked to call NPS at 928-638-7805.

Pets in areas where they are allowed should be kept on a leash.

Those taking a river trip should, if possible, sleep in a tent.

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