Wildlife officials are offering a $1,000 reward related to the illegal trapping of a fox in the Hollister area, according to a statement from an organization called Wildlife Emergency Services.
The evening of Dec. 9, the organization was called to rescue a fox snared by a trap the animal had been dragging by a front leg. Rescuers saw the fox at the intersection of Union Heights and Riverside Road, but could not capture it.
Today, it was spotted in the Union Heights neighborhood. The organization and a warden with fish and wildlife responded. The fox was alert and wary, but able to avoid capture again, according to the wildlife group. While responding they noticed the trap was gone.
They found the illegal trap—which is called a leghold and has been banned in the state since 1998. It is now in possession of the enforcement unit for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The trap and paw came off, while the group noted it is not uncommon for an animal to gnaw off a limb if trapped.
Wildlife Emergency Services is offering the $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction in the case.
Anyone with information can call the California Department of Fish and Wildlife CalTip line at 1-888- 334-2258 or 408-499-8714. To add to the reward amount, please email [email protected].
