July 15, 2025

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COYOTE IN TROUBLE—A 15-second video posted on social media by Zadi D. of Monte Nido sparked widespread concern with footage that shows what appears to be a dark colored animal trap affixed to the coyote’s left front paw.

A coyote seen limping through the Monte Nido neighborhood of Calabasas has sparked concern among residents and local wildlife advocates this week.

An email to The Acorn on July 15 from a group called the California Wildlife Protection Alliance stated the animal appears to be injured, with what looks like an illegal steel trap clamped to its left front paw. The video was posted by a Zadi D. on the NextDoor app.

“Not only did his paw have the trap on it, but as he walked down the street it made a metallic noise on the pavement, which will hinder his ability to find food,” said a post by Monte Nido’s Elizabeth Santonastaso, who apparently saw the animal herself.

Randi Feilich, Vice Chair of the City of Calabasas Environmental Commission and a long-time advocate for wildlife, said she contacted the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, which has since opened an investigation.

Authorities are now working to locate the animal and determine if a crime has been committed.

In 1998, California voters approved Proposition 4, which banned the use of leghold traps and other body-gripping traps for recreational trapping and fur trade, Feilich said.

“The ban specifically prohibits using these traps. This is inhumane and cruel and leaves the poor animal unable to walk on four legs, and likely in extreme pain, unable to hunt or survive normally in the wild,” Feilich said.

Authorities are urging the public to report any sightings of the injured coyote or any information related to the illegal trap. Tips can be reported anonymously by calling the CalTIP hotline at (888) 334-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258).

–John Loesing

Caught in a steel trap, coyote’s plight causes outcry