Rabies of wild mammals in Russia at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries

Analysis of the incidence of animal rabies in Russia (1960–2006) and assessment of the abundance of wild canids and rabies infection prevalence among them (1981–2006) have been made. The results provide evidence for the dominant role of red foxes in the spread of rabies among wild animals (91.67%), which is confirmed by a strong correlation between the abundance of this predator and the numbers of infected animals (r = 0.73). In 2004 to 2006, the prevailing incidence of animal rabies in one or another territory was determined mainly (74.7%) by the pooled population density of red and corsac foxes and wolves. Natural and economic features of the landscape determined the incidence of rabies indirectly, via changes in the numbers of wild animals (by 68.9%). A comparative analysis of the recorded and potentially possible rabies incidence rates among wolves, red and corsac foxes, and raccoon dogs over the period from 1996 and 2006 is presented.