Raccoon Bite Reported at Wright-Locke Farm:

WINCHESTER MA—A child was bitten by a Raccoon on the ear at Wright-Locke Farm on March 17.

Bram Berkowitz, who broke the story on the Advocate's website reports:

McIntyre, executive director of the Farm, ran outside and saw the raccoon scurry off into the barn. He called 911, and after police tracked the raccoon into a horse stall, McIntyre said they shot and killed the wild animal, avoiding its brain, which needs to be intact to conduct testing for rabies. As it turned out, the brain tissue tested positive for the deadly disease.

The 4-year-old Arlington resident, who was enjoying a nice afternoon at the farm with her mother, was taken to the hospital and vaccinated right away. McIntyre says the girl is expected to make a full recovery.

The vexing episode at the farm demonstrates why it’s important to know how to recognize and avoid a rabid animal, especially as people and wildlife get more active as warm weather approaches.

The town of Arlington alerted its residents Tuesday on the potential dangers of rabies and raccoon bites.

Photo Credit: Wright Locke Farm Facebook page.