Rabid Fox Found In Brookline, Near Jamaica Plain

BROOKLINE, MA — Earlier this month a rabid fox was captured in Brookline near the Muddy River close to Jamaica Plain, according to the Brookline Department of Public Health.

Rabies is preventable with post-exposure prophylaxis that includes rabies vaccine and medications to fight infection, as long as people get the "PEP" before symptoms start, health officials say.

“If you see wildlife acting erratic avoid them and please call the police immediately” said Brookline Health Commissioner Swannie Jett in a release.

According to MassWildlife, both the gray fox and the red fox, which are found across the state are opportunistic feeders, and mainly eat small rodents, squirrels, rabbits, birds, eggs, insects, vegetation and fruit as well as dead animals. Foxes are quite vocal, having a large repertoire of howls, barks and whines. And per their reputation, they're usually pretty shy, but they are also curious.

They may be active night or day, and sightings at dusk or dawn are common, say experts.

They remain active all year and do not hibernate. Foxes will share and maintain territories that may be anywhere from 2 to 7 square miles with their mate pairs and their immature pups, but will actively defend them from non-related foxes.

Tips for residents From Mass.gov:

Foxes can thrive close to humans in suburban and urban areas. They require only a source of food, water, and cover. If you want to make your property less attractive to foxes and avoid having any problems with these small predators, follow these basic practices. Remember, share these tips with your neighbors; your efforts will be futile if neighbors provide food or shelter for foxes.

Don't feed or pet foxes

Feeding, whether direct or indirect, can cause foxes to act tame and over time, may lead to bold behavior. Foxes that rely on natural food items remain wild and wary of humans. Secure your garbage in tough plastic containers with tight-fitting lids and keep in secure buildings when possible. Take out trash the morning pick up is scheduled, not the previous night. Keep compost in secure, vented containers.

Close off crawl spaces

Foxes will use areas under porches and sheds for resting and raising young. Close these areas off to prevent animals from using them.

Keep bird feeder areas clean

Use feeders designed to keep seed off the ground, as the seed attracts many small mammals foxes prey upon. Remove feeders if foxes are regularly seen around your yard.

Don't let foxes intimidate you

Don’t hesitate to scare or threaten foxes with loud noises, bright lights, or water sprayed from a hose.

Cut back brushy edges

These areas provide prime cover for foxes and their prey.

Pet owners

Although free roaming pets are more likely to be killed by automobiles than by wild animals, foxes can view cats as potential food. For the safety of your pets, keep them leashed at all times. Additionally, feed your pets indoors. Outdoor feeding can attract many wild animals. Foxes are important and valuable natural resources in Massachusetts. They are classified as furbearer species, for which regulated hunting seasons and management programs have been established.

If you are experiencing problems with foxes or have questions, contact your nearest MassWildlife office.