Overview
- The second attack involved a 19-year-old fisherman who was bitten on the leg in the South Beach Day Use area and went to Meritus Medical Center for treatment following the Wednesday incident.
- Natural Resources Police captured and euthanized the beaver from the second attack and sent the carcass to Frederick County health officials for rabies testing with results expected later this week.
- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources closed the Houck Day Use Area, the adjacent boat ramp, and Big Hunting Creek and has prohibited swimming, fishing, boating, and other water access around Hunting Creek Lake.
- Wildlife crews have stepped up daytime surveillance, added nighttime monitoring, and previously dismantled a nearby beaver lodge as they search for additional animals that could spread disease.
- State officials note beaver attacks are rare but often involve rabid animals, they urge visitors to stay at least 25 yards from beavers, and anyone who had contact should call the Frederick County Health Department at 301-600-3342 for guidance.