Rare Skunk Attack Prompts Rabies Alert in Montgomery County

Skunk Attack Upstate NY

Here's something you don't see or hear about every day.

A rare but serious wildlife encounter in Montgomery County has prompted a public health warning after a skunk that bit a local resident tested positive for rabies.

According to the Montgomery County Health Department, the skunk involved in the incident near Swan Street in Amsterdam has been confirmed rabid by the New York State Wadsworth Laboratory.

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The Attack Was Unprovoked

According to the MCHD, the victim, who was simply going about normal outdoor activities, reportedly did nothing to provoke the animal and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Swan Street in Amsterdam Photo: Google Maps

While skunks are common throughout New York, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says unprovoked attacks are extremely rare, and actual human rabies infections from skunks are even rarer.

Nationwide, only one to three people contract rabies each year, with most cases linked to bats. Human infections resulting from skunk exposure average zero to one case annually across the entire country.

Striped skunks are classified as protected furbearers, and most encounters involve animals foraging in yards, taking shelter under sheds, or acting defensively—particularly during mating season.

Seek Medical Attention if Bitten

Health officials are urging residents to avoid approaching wild animals, especially those that appear sick, injured, unusually aggressive, or are behaving strangely. Anyone bitten by wildlife should seek medical attention immediately.

If you notice wildlife acting erratically or displaying unusual behavior, officials recommend calling 911 right away.