Which of the following animals is a primary source of rabies in Texas?

Skunks are considered a primary source of rabies in Texas due to their role as common carriers of the virus. They are more likely to have contact with domestic animals, spreading rabies when they bite or scratch. The prevalence of rabies in skunks is significant, as they often inhabit areas where they can come into contact with humans and pets, increasing the chance of transmission.

In contrast, the other animals listed do not serve as major contributors to rabies transmission in Texas. Rattlesnakes, woodpeckers, and sparrows are not recognized as carriers of the rabies virus. Rattlesnakes and other reptiles are not mammals and therefore cannot carry rabies, while birds like sparrows and woodpeckers do not contract or spread the virus. This distinction highlights the importance of understanding the specific animals that pose a risk for rabies, emphasizing the role skunks play in the epidemiology of the disease in Texas. Identifying skunks as a primary vector assists in public health responses and informs preventative measures against rabies.