- Rabies, Animal Bites, Bats, Wildlife
-
Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It can spread to people and pets if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system. If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a potential rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies can be prevented by vaccinating pets, staying away from wildlife, and seeking medical care after potential exposures before symptoms start.
Animal bites, scratches and wildlife encounters
- Call the ECDOH immediately at (716) 961-6800; after business hours call (716) 961-7898. We will investigate the situation and advise you on what to do.
- A list of licensed Wildlife Control Officers is available here or call the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation at 716-851-7000.
- Wildlife Oral Rabies Vaccination (ORV) Program
Bat encounters
- If you find a bat in your house, DO NOT let the bat get outside. Call the ECDOH immediately at (716) 961-6800; after business hours call (716) 961-7898. Follow the steps below to capture the bat so that the ECDOH can test it for rabies.
- If professional help is not available, capture the bat safely as described below or watch this video on how to safely catch a bat . You will need leather or very thick work gloves (put them on), a small box or coffee can, a piece of cardboard, and tape.
- When the bat lands, move slowly toward it.
- While wearing the gloves, put the box or coffee can over the bat.
- Then, slide the cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside.
- Tape the cardboard to the container, and punch small holes in the cardboard, allowing the bat to breathe.
Rabies Vaccination & Pet Health
Rabies in Erie County
- Rodent (Rat) Control
-
ECDOH responds to service requests regarding rodent infestations for properties that are four (4) unit residences or less which are not part of an apartment complex or commercial property. We conduct investigations of complaints such as, but not limited to, properties that have rodent infestations, improperly stored garbage, junk & debris, improper bird and wildlife feeding, dog feces not cleaned up and disposed of properly. These are conditions that create rodent harborage and attract potentially dangerous nuisance wildlife. Baiting service (extermination) is provided free of charge.
- To request baiting or to report a problem - complete the Rodent Service Request & Complaint Form or call (716) 961-6800
- Educational Information
- Arbovirus Prevention (Ticks, Mosquitoes, etc)
-
Arbovirus are viruses transmitted by bloodsucking arthropods such as mosquitoes ticks and fleas. ECDOH conducts investigations of complaints such as standing water, improperly maintained swimming pools and other man made containers that hold water and create mosquito harborage.
Ticks & Lyme Disease
- How to Properly Remove a Tick & Tick Prevention
- Tick Identification
- Tick Testing is available from Citizen Science Tick Testing and The Insect Diagnostic Lab
- Ticks & Lyme Disease Facts
Mosquitoes & West Nile Virus:
- To report standing water, call (716) 961-6800.
- Educational Information
- Nuisance Animals
-
- Tips to Eliminate Wildlife Conflicts - Best practices for landowners to repel or control and prevent problems with unwanted animals.
- Remove or "Take" Nuisance Animals Legally - Identify if you need a permit or license to legally trap or shoot an animal on your own.
- Bed Bugs Facts & Control
Contact
Division of Environmental Health
ECDOH Building
503 Kensington Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14214
Map of Campus
Phone: 716-961-6800 (For Emergencies after regular business hours: 716-961-7898)
Fax: 716-961-6880