Wildlife Emergency Services (WES) provided pictures of the raccoon they're calling Duke.
San Jose Animal Care and Services rescued the adult male raccoon after he was found mangled in two different body-gripping traps. They brought him to the wildlife hospital where he was quickly tended to by medical staff.
The traps broke Duke's left paw and right wrist.
His tail also needed to be amputated because it was injured beyond repair.
The good news is that despite his injuries, Duke will live. Though it's unclear whether he'll be able to return to the wild.
According to WES, body-gripping traps are prohibited for recreation and the fur trade in California, with restricted use when protecting property or for public health and safety.
They also note that additional regulations govern the setting of traps, including cage-type "humane" traps. For example, traps must be clearly labeled with a number registered with the Department of Fish and Wildlife. They say this trap had no visible identification.
WES is collecting pledges toward a reward fund for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for this crime.
If you have any information about this crime, please call the California Department of Fish and Wildlife CalTip line at 888-334-2258.
