Rabid raccoon found wandering in Mystic

GROTON, Conn. (WTNH) -- There is a reminder to people to stay away from wild animals after a raccoon in one shoreline town tested positive for rabies.

It's not uncommon to see someone skateboarding, walking, or even see some wildlife along the wooded Fishtown Road in Mystic. However, a raccoon found wandering one Mystic neighborhood last week turned out to be rabid.

"Not really unusual," said Ted Frase, of Mystic. "There's lots of wild animals around."

Frase knows to be cautious. He takes Zoe for walks every day and saw a raccoon the day before the rabid one was reported.

"She looked to be a pregnant mama and she was waddling around," said Frase, "and she didn't stay in sight long, she went to hide."

The Ledge Light Health District has put out a warning to remind folks to stay away, don't approach, and don't feed wild animals. It's something Frase is very aware of.

"You don't pet them, you don't try to touch them, you don't feed them," Frase said.

Advice worth repeating when a rabid animal is found. Lots of folks travel along Fishtown Road and the last thing health officials want to see is someone coming in contact with a rabid raccoon or other wildlife.

"There's a lot of kids that walk up and down the street, there's a school right there," said Frase. "Is it a concern? Sure, but is it a worry? No."

As long as folks stay away they should stay safe.