What is the major reservoir for rabies in California?

• A. Skunk
• B. Bat
• C. Raccoon
• D. Fox

Answer: (A)

Rabies persists in wildlife through reservoir species that maintain the virus in nature. In California, the primary wildlife reservoir is the skunk. Skunks sustain rabies circulation in wild populations and frequently come into contact with domestic animals, making them a key source of spillover. While bats are also important and drive many human exposures, they are not the main reservoir maintaining rabies in the state’s wildlife. Raccoons and foxes occur and can carry rabies, but they are not the leading reservoir in California. So, the best answer is the skunk.