State officials are conducting a search for a red fox that is believed to be infected with rabies at Mount Loretto on Staten Island. The agency has asked residents and visitors to steer clear of wildlife in the area while the animal is being located.
The search began on August 30, 2026, after officials identified a fox showing signs that could indicate rabies infection. Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to people and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Because of the serious health risk, authorities routinely monitor wildlife that displays unusual behavior or other indicators of the disease.
Officials have not released the exact location of the fox within the Mount Loretto property, but they emphasize that the public should avoid contact with any wild animals, especially those that appear sick or act unusually. The agency advises anyone who may have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal to seek medical attention promptly.
Mount Loretto, a historic site on Staten Island, is a popular destination for hikers, families, and local residents. The presence of a potentially rabid animal has prompted a heightened alert in the community, and officials are working with local law‑enforcement and animal control to locate the fox and assess the situation.
Rabies cases in New York State are relatively rare, but health officials remain vigilant because the disease can spread quickly once an infected animal is in contact with humans or domestic pets. The current effort reflects standard protocol for managing wildlife that may pose a public health threat.
The search is ongoing, and state officials will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, they continue to urge the public to keep a safe distance from wildlife at Mount Loretto and to report any sightings of the fox to the appropriate authorities.