These masked bandits could be deadly.
The city has identified four raccoons in and around Inwood Hill Park that have rabies, the first cases in Manhattan since 2011.
The foaming-at-the-mouth critters were taken into custody over the last two months with rabies confirmed after testing, according to the city Health Department.
The city had the raccoons put down.
They are among six cases of rabid animals that have been identified in the Big Apple so far this year. The other two raccoons were picked up in the South Bronx and Staten Island.
Health Department Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot announced the findings Friday and took the opportunity to warn New Yorkers to get their pets vaccinated against rabies and avoid “sick, disoriented or unusually placid or aggressive” animals.
“Keep a close eye on your pets when you take them outside,” she said. “If you see a wild animal, such as a raccoon, maintain a safe distance and do not approach it.”
Aside from raccoons, other animals that commonly test positive for rabies in the city include bats, cats and skunks.
