CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Corpus Christi Animal Care Services (CCACS) has seen an increased number of raccoons roaming throughout local parks. An increased number of raccoons could pose a threat to residents and pets as they can carry infectious diseases like rabies and distemper.
CCACS is reminding the community that feeding wildlife is against city ordinances. Feeding wildlife can have negative effects on the animal including:
- Altering their natural behaviors and leading to a dependency on humans for food.
- Causing them to become aggressive and pose a danger to humans.
- Leading to the spread of disease to domestic pets and humans.
It is important to take precautions when encountering wildlife. Seek medical attention if you think you may have been exposed to a disease. If a feral animal has bitten you:
- Immediately wash the wound with soap and water.
- Contact Animal Care Services.
- Consult a Health Care Provider as soon as possible.
Feeding wildlife in a manner that creates a public nuisance and poses a health and safety risk is a violation of our Chapter 6 Ordinances section 6-163 Feeding of Animals. This violation is a class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.
For more information, media representatives can contact Senior Public Information Officer Gabriela Morrow at 361-826-3583 or by email at GabrielaM@cctexas.com.