Dangerous rabid beavers attack 2 teens, popular Maryland park partially closed

A popular state park in Maryland is now partially closed after two recent attacks by rabid beavers.The first beaver attack at Cunningham Falls State Park in Frederick County, Maryland, by the town of Thurmont, involved a 13-year-old swimmer on July 26.The teenage boy, who had injuries to his hands and chest, was airlifted to Johns Hopkins Hospital, according to WJLA in Washington, D.C.Following the attack, the beaver was euthanized.It tested positive for rabies the following day, a press release from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) noted.Swimming access to Hunting Creek Lake at the park was closed soon afterward.The more recent incident took place on August 5, when a 19-year-old fisherman was bitten in the ankle by a beaver.

The young man took himself to Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown for examination.He received treatment and a tetanus shot.This beaver was subsequently euthanized and tested positive for rabiesThe incidents have prompted partial park closures. “Currently at Cunningham Falls State Park, day-use areas around Hunting Creek Lake will remain closed until wildlife experts and park management determine it is safe to reopen them to the public,” Joe Zimmermann, public information officer for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, told Fox News Digital. Other areas of Cunningham Falls State Park remain open for camping and hiking.“Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff, including wildlife specialists and park staff, are working to ensure the safety of the area and confirm that there are no additional beavers present,” said Zimmermann. He noted that in addition to traps which have been set up since the first incident, wildlife staff are conducting nighttime surveys of the lake area with thermal imaging.During this time, staff have checked the surrounding area for signs of beavers, and workers remain vigilant throughout the entire park, he said.Cunningham Falls State Park has many visitors in the su...