Fresno Chaffee Zoo confirms 2 rabies-positive wild bats found on grounds

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Two confirmed cases of rabies were identified at Fresno Chaffee Zoo this month after two deceased bats found on the property tested positive for the disease.

According to the zoo, the bats were wild animals and not part of its collection. The animals were discovered during routine ground inspections and were immediately sent for testing.

California is home to 26 different bat species.

"Bats are a normal part of our ecosystem. They serve a really important purpose," said Dr. Audrey Siegrist, director of veterinary services at Fresno Chaffee Zoo.

The two bats were found about a week apart in different areas of the zoo's grounds.

"One was on the back row, way behind our Savannah exhibit, where our hoof stock lives. The other one was on the opposite side of the zoo, near our rainforest," Siegrist said.

Zoo officials said none of the animals in their care have shown signs of disease. Siegrist said staff members closely monitor animals for signs of illness and that the animals are vaccinated against rabies.

"We look at them all the time; they get checks every day," Siegrist said.

The zoo believes the bats may have flown onto the grounds overnight. Officials said no employees have been infected. The zoo also has trained staff members who handle rabies-positive cases.

"If an animal that's deceased is spotted, they immediately report that to the veterinarian, and it's one of the vet departments that goes and collects the deceased remains," Siegrist said.

Siegrist said rabies is endemic to the Fresno region. State health data show that in Fresno County, there were 16 confirmed cases of rabies found in bats in 2025.

"It's not uncommon for this to be detected, but that's why we want to have protocols in place," Siegrist said.

The California Department of Public Health also monitors skunks, dogs, cats, raccoons and other animals for rabies. Zoo officials said the health and safety of employees, guests and animals remains their top priority.

The zoo advises people not to approach dead animals they may encounter, whether on zoo grounds or in public. Instead, officials recommend contacting local health services.

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