A previous study on N gene variation of rabies viruses circulating in Ontario red foxes
identified four viral variants. This study confirms the geographical localization of these variants
and extends the analysis to the less conserved G gene of these viruses. A greater number of
regionally localized variants was revealed and their phylogenetic relationships have been
examined. Ongoing surveillance on recent disease outbreaks revealed that variants do not
always persist in specific areas. The distribution of these variants did however appear to be
influenced by topographical features of the study area likely to affect host animal movements
and contacts. The majority of G gene base changes were synonymous and limited glycoprotein
sequence variation predominantly to the C-terminal transmembrane and endo-domains. These
data are most readily explained by random appearance of genetic viral variants followed by
their spread throughout sub-populations of the fox host according to the easiest routes of
transmission.