We are including information specifically about mange to this page, as there has been an increase in mange in the Beech Moutain area. Please use the information below to stay safe if you encounter any wildlife you suspect has mange.
Mange is a common skin disease caused by mites. If the animal is mobile, it is best left alone and given time and space to recover on its own. If it is injured/immobile, there are a very limited number of licensed wildlife rehabilitators that may handle rabies vector species that may be contacted to see if they have an opening for a new patient, see: (ncwildlife.org) They typically do not take in animals just for mange, but may treat mites, and other skin infections secondary to any other injuries that an animal may have. There are also restrictions prohibiting the rehabilitation of rabies vector species, with the exception of bats, in any of the counties where the the USDA-APHIS is implementing the Oral Rabies Vaccine, as part of the National Rabies Management Program
Do NOT try to handle any rabies vector species, as any exposures would then be referred to the local animal control office, and county health dept. accordingly and fall under their jurisdiction.
