Texas Animal Control Officer Practice Test

Which of the following animals are classified as low risk for rabies?

1. Bat

2. Skunk

3. Raccoon

4. Opossum

The correct answer is: Opossum

Opossums are classified as low risk for rabies primarily because of their unique biological and behavioral characteristics. They have a lower body temperature than most mammals, which makes it less conducive for the rabies virus to thrive. Additionally, opossums tend to avoid confrontations with other animals, and when threatened, they may play dead rather than engage in aggressive behavior. This behavior reduces their chance of being bitten by potentially rabid animals. In contrast, bats, skunks, and raccoons are often carriers of the rabies virus. They tend to be more aggressive when threatened and can frequently come into contact with other animals or humans, increasing the likelihood of rabies transmission. The behaviors and habitats of these species contribute to their higher risk classification in terms of rabies exposure.