Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

True or False: All native mammals can transmit rabies.

1. True

2. False

3. Only carnivorous mammals

4. Only omnivorous mammals

The correct answer is: True

The statement that all native mammals can transmit rabies is not accurate. While it is true that many mammals have the potential to carry and transmit the rabies virus, not all native mammal species are known to do so. Rabies is primarily associated with certain groups of mammals, particularly carnivores (like raccoons, foxes, and bats) and some species of bats. These groups have a higher incidence of rabies and are more commonly recognized as rabies carriers. Many herbivorous mammals, such as deer and rodents, typically do not serve as significant reservoirs for rabies and are rarely reported to be infected with the virus. While technically any mammal has the potential to contract rabies if exposed to the virus, the likelihood and frequency of transmission are not the same across all species. Therefore, stating that all native mammals can transmit rabies is incorrect, as only certain groups are recognized as carriers of the disease. This assessment is crucial for wildlife management and public health awareness in Massachusetts and other regions.