Which types of animals are primarily responsible for rabies transmission in Texas?

The primary animals responsible for rabies transmission in Texas are indeed bats and raccoons. Bats, in particular, are the most significant carriers of rabies in the state, with large populations of various bat species often being associated with outbreaks. Raccoons are also known to frequently carry the virus and can transmit rabies to other wildlife, domestic animals, and humans.

While foxes and skunks can also be carriers of rabies, their prevalence in Texas does not match that of bats and raccoons. The other options, such as rats and mice, as well as woodpeckers and opossums, are not significant carriers of rabies. Opossums, for example, have a lower body temperature that makes it difficult for the rabies virus to survive, rendering them less of a threat in terms of transmission. Understanding the dynamics of rabies transmission helps in implementing control measures and educating the public on how to avoid potential exposure to these animals.