Bat found near elevator at San Diego Zoo Safari Park tests positive for rabies 

ESCONDIDO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- A wild bat that was found at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Wednesday tested positive for rabies.

The animal, which did not live at the Safari Park, was located around 10:45 a.m. at the base of the public elevator (the only public one in the park) in the African Loop near the hot air balloon ride, according to the County of San Diego.

Park visitors who had direct contact with the bat, know of someone who may have touched the bat or were in the area of the elevator and stairs should contact County Public Health Services as soon as possible at 619-692-8499.  

Those who had no physical contact with the bat are not at risk for rabies, per local health officials.

A trained staff member safely secured the bat, which later tested positive for rabies.

“Human rabies is usually fatal without prompt post-exposure vaccine and treatment,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, County interim public health officer. “Rabies transmission can happen from a bat bite or if a bat’s saliva comes in contact with a cut or abrasion, or with mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose or mouth. Although bats can carry rabies, they are an important part of nature in San Diego County. It is important to respect the space of wildlife and do not touch them.”  

Rabies is viral disease that is most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal.

If you do come in direct contact with a bat, the County of San Diego advises to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and get medical advice immediately.  

If symptoms develop, which can take weeks to months, is almost always fatal, so being on top of it as soon as possible is essential.

In 2025, three rabid bats have been detected in San Diego County.