Two Bats Test Positive for Deadly Rabies Virus in Denver

Published on July 23, 2025

Denver Animal Protection warns community to avoid contact with bats, other wild animals

Denver Animal Protection (DAP) is warning the public to be cautious after two bats tested positive for the rabies virus.

A bat found in the Sloan Lake neighborhood on July 8 is the first rabies-positive bat of the year in Denver. A family in the Highlands neighborhood reported the second positive bat on July 17.

The rabies virus is found in an animal’s saliva and is usually transmitted to people and pets through a bite from a rabid animal. The viral disease affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal if symptoms develop. What’s concerning is that bat bites may go unnoticed since bats have small teeth, making their bites difficult to detect.

That’s why it is crucial for pet owners to keep their animals up to date on their rabies vaccinations. The Denver Animal Shelter offers a low-cost vaccine clinic every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The clinic is first come, first served.

Here is what else DAP recommends to minimize the risk of rabies:

• Avoid all contact with bats and other wild animals. In Denver, contact DAP for assistance in capturing the animal at (720) 913-2080.
• Do not sleep with open, unscreened windows or doors. Most bat contacts in Denver result from bats that have somehow entered the home, and the person wakes up to find the bat on their bed or in a room with their pet.
• If bats are seen inside a Denver house or other structure, close off the area and call DAP. Once the bat(s) have been removed, close off any areas allowing entrance into the house.
• Do not leave pet food outside where it will attract wild animals.
• Immediately wash all animal bites with soap and water, thoroughly flushing the wound, and then contact your doctor. If you come into contact with an animal positive for rabies, you may be started on post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which can prevent the development of rabies.
• Report all animal bites or scratches to DAP.

Bats are prevalent in Colorado and can make their way into people’s homes. DAP picks up bats routinely throughout the summer, sometimes multiple times a week. DAP tests any bats that have had confirmed or suspected contact with a person or pet. If there is no contact, officers will release the bats back into the environment.

Any skunk, raccoon, bat, coyote, or fox, handled by a person or in contact with a pet, must be euthanized and tested for rabies. Even a seemingly healthy animal can carry rabies without exhibiting any symptoms. If you encounter these animals, do not approach or try to touch them, and keep a safe distance.