New York Issues Rabies Warning After Aggressive Beaver Attacks Swimmers Near Turtle Island

New York state officials have warned the public to stay alert after an aggressive beaver attacked swimmers near Turtle Island, leading authorities to confirm that the animal tested positive for rabies.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) issued a public safety advisory after identifying the presence of one or more beavers that may be infected with rabies in the area. The warning comes after a dead beaver recovered from the water near Turtle Island on July 9 tested positive for the virus.

The advisory follows a frightening incident that happened on July 4 when three people were swimming near Turtle Island. During the swim, one member of the group suddenly realized he was being attacked by an animal in the water.

Brandon Shortsleeve, who was swimming with his brother and a friend, described the unexpected encounter. According to his account, the beaver first attacked his friend. After the animal was pulled away, it quickly returned and continued acting aggressively instead of swimming off.

Shortsleeve said the group’s first reaction was confusion because they did not immediately know what was attacking them. When he jumped into the water to help, he grabbed the animal and realized it was a beaver after seeing its teeth and distinctive tail.

While trying to remove the animal from the water and protect the others, Shortsleeve was bitten several times. Despite the bites, he managed to keep hold of the beaver before throwing it away from the group to stop the attack.

He recalled that the aggressive behavior shocked everyone involved because the animal repeatedly returned after being separated from the swimmers. The incident lasted only a short time, but it left those involved shaken by the unexpected attack.

Following the incident, New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation confirmed that a dead beaver found in the same area later tested positive for rabies. Based on that result, officials warned that there may be one or more rabid beavers present around Turtle Island.

State officials are urging people to use caution around the area while the advisory remains in effect. The warning is intended to help protect visitors and swimmers from possible contact with infected wildlife.

Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including wild animals. An infected animal may display unusual aggression or abnormal behavior, making unexpected attacks more likely.

The confirmed case near Turtle Island has prompted state officials to closely monitor the situation while informing the public about the potential risk. Visitors are encouraged to remain aware of wildlife activity in and around the water and follow any guidance issued by state authorities.

The Department of Environmental Conservation continues to monitor the area after confirming the rabies case and has advised the public to exercise caution until the situation is considered safe.

Sources

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
• WPTZ News
• News 10