Skip to main content

Gray Fox Tests Positive for Canine Distemper at Pinnacles NP



PAICINES – In recent days, Pinnacles National Park staff and visitors have found several sick or
dead Gray Foxes on park trails. One of these foxes has tested positive for Canine Distemper, a
disease that can be spread from domesticated dogs to local wildlife species including Gray Fox,
Coyote, Raccoon, Skunk, Badger, and possibly Mountain Lion. Canine distemper outbreaks occur
periodically in wildlife and can have significant impacts on an affected population. It is difficult to
predict how long this outbreak will last, or how many animals will be impacted.
Although humans are not known to contract Canine Distemper, domesticated dogs are highly
susceptible. People who are considering bringing a pet to Pinnacles should be informed about risks
to their pets from wildlife diseases, and to make sure pets are healthy and up to date on vaccines in
order to reduce the risk of spreading diseases to park wildlife. In order to reduce the impacts of pets
on park wildlife, pets are not allowed on trails. Pets must be kept on leash, and are allowed only in
developed areas: roads, picnic areas, and the campground.
As always, park visitors are encouraged to enjoy wildlife from a safe distance. Canine Distemper
usually causes animals to become lethargic or disoriented, but an animal that feels threatened or
cornered may act aggressively. If you see an animal that appears to be dead, sick, or behaving
strangely, do not approach it. Instead, note details and location, and report it to park staff as soon as
possible.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Lake San Antonio Closed Due to Large Scale Fish Die Off; Number of Fish Impacted is Increasing and Reason for Die Off Remains Unknown

July 9, 2024- Out of abundance of caution for public health, County of Monterey Parks is closing the Lake San Antonio facility due to a large-scale fish die off from an unknown cause. On July 5, 2024, Parks staff noticed that dead baitfish, mostly shad, began washing up on the shore around Lake San Antonio and immediately contacted California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to report the situation. At that time, the CDFW fisheries biologist stated the fish die off was most likely due to the high temperatures and low dissolved oxygen level in the water and that the situation most likely did not present a risk to the public. Parks staff also contacted the Water Resources Agency (WRA), State Water Resources Control Board and Environmental Health Bureau.   Unfortunately, the fish die off has continued with larger species such as bass, catfish, crappie, carp, and trout being impacted. Attached photos include a 3–4-pound bass.   CDFW, WRA and EHB are working together to try t...

King City Man Arrested on January 6 for Rape, Unlawful Sexual Intercourse with a Minor and Kidnapping

  According to King City Police Department, on December 30, 2024 a 17-year-old minor female victim reported that she had attended a party on the 100 Block of Bedford Circle on December 24, 2024. During the party, the suspect provided her with alcohol. He then pulled the victim into a bedroom, forcibly removed her clothing and had sexual intercourse with her against her will. This case was investigated by the King City Police Department Investigations Unit which resulted in the apprehension and arrest on January 6, 2025 of the suspect identified as 21-year-old Jesus Oseguera Briseno of King City. Briseno was also booked into the Monterey County Jail charged with Rape, Unlawful Sexual Intercourse with a Minor and Kidnapping. Anyone with further information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the King City Police Department at (844) 844-3382; Sergeant Josh Partida (831) 385-4848 or jpartida@kingcity.com; or the WeTip line at 1-800-78-CRIME. Your call may remain completely ano...

Attempted Homicide Shooting Incident in King City on September 29

  The King City Police Department received a report of gunshots heard in the area of the 600 block of Sycamore Street at around 1 am on Sunday, September 29. While enroute, the King City PD was advised that 2 victims were transported to Mee Memorial Hospital by private vehicle to be treated for gunshot wounds.   Upon arrival, officers were told that a single unknown suspect opened the gate to a fenced yard and fired 10 rounds into a crowd attending a party. 2 individuals were struck by the gunfire, after-which the suspect fled on foot.  The suspect was described as wearing a dark colored hoodie and pants. The 2 victims are a 16-year-old juvenile male who was shot 3 times and an 18-year-old male who was shot 1 time.  Both victims were transported to Natividad Hospital from Mee Memorial and are currently listed in stable condition. Detectives from the King City Police Department are currently working the investigation with assistance from the Greenfield Police Dep...