Rabid bat found near playground at Renton’s Gene Coulon Park, health officials say
Wed, July 29, 2026 at 6:00 PM
The case was the first rabid bat reported in Douglas County since 2021. Local wildlife rehabilitator Becky Bass, who cared for the bat after it was discovered, said people should be cautious if they encounter a bat showing signs of illness such as an inability to fly, biting or chewing objects, or making sounds. (AP file photo)
RENTON, Wash. —A bat found at a Renton park has tested positive for rabies, Public Health – Seattle & King County officials said Wednesday
The bat was discovered Tuesday at Gene Coulon Park on a sidewalk at the south end of the park, near the playground, south shelter and park restrooms
Health officials are warning that anyone who may have had physical contact with the bat — even without a visible bite — could be at risk of rabies exposure
“Rabies is treatable if it’s caught before symptoms begin, so it’s important to identify anyone who has had contact with the bat as soon as possible,” said Jocelyn Mullins, Public Health Veterinarian at Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Contact includes touching a bat, being bitten or scratched, or having any other bare skin touch a bat or its saliva.”
Officials advise anyone who believes they may have come into contact with the bat to seek medical evaluation immediately or call Public Health at 206-296-4774 to determine whether rabies preventive treatment is needed
If anyone spots a bat outside, do not touch the bat, and if there are concerns that the bat may be sick, call animal control at 206-296-7387 (PETS)
