Low Flying Planes and Helicopters Dropping Rabies Baits for Racoons

ORANGE BEACH, Ala.
January 13, 2025
By Dale Hines

Once again, this year, you might be seeing low flying airplanes and helicopters flying over Baldwin County and dropping little packages.

Oral rabies vaccine (ORV) baits will be distributed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in our areas from January 27 to February 10.

In Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surrounding communities, USDA personnel will distribute ORV baits by vehicle within the designated bait zone. (See the bait zone map below.)

If you find an ORV bait, it’s best to leave it undisturbed. If the bait is in an area where children or pets play, use gloves or a plastic bag to move it to a wooded area.
Dispose of damaged baits in the trash.
Wash with soap and water if you do come into contact with the bait, especially if it’s damaged.

If your pet eats bait, there’s no need to panic. A few baits aren’t harmful, though consuming many may cause an upset stomach. Avoid taking the bait away from your pet to prevent bites or exposure to the vaccine. Check the area for more baits and move them to a wooded area. Avoid your pet’s saliva for 24 hours and wash any skin or wounds that may have been licked.

For questions or concerns about ORV baits, contact the Rabies Information line at 1-866-487-3297 or the Alabama Department of Public Health at 1-800-252-1818.

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