Rabies is a condition specific to mammals. Contact with infected bats is the leading concern in Washington State and the U.S. You cannot tell if an animal has rabies by looking at it. The only way to confirm rabies is with laboratory testing. The rabies virus is found in infected mammals' saliva and brain tissue and is typically spread to humans through animal bites.
Never handle bats with bare hands! If you, another person, or a pet has had direct contact with a bat (or a bat is found in a sleeping area), call 360-414-5599 to determine the next steps. Information about safely capturing bats can be found here.
