A coyote affectionately nicknamed “Wendy” by Studio City residents has been euthanized after veterinarians discovered that her severe facial deformity was the result of an infected pellet gun wound. Wildlife Care of Southern California announced the animal's death on Tuesday.
Rescuers had been tracking the approximately three-year-old coyote for weeks after she was spotted roaming the community for over a year with a large growth on the left side of her face. Wildlife Care of Southern California had intended to capture Wendy, treat her injuries, and release her back into the wild. However, diagnostic imaging revealed that the damage was extensive.
Veterinarians found two pellets embedded in the coyote's skull. Over time, a resulting infection had severely impacted her face, completely destroying the upper jawbone on the left side. The organization determined that surgical intervention was not a viable option, and even if she survived, Wendy would have required a lifelong diet of soft foods, making a return to the wild impossible.
"Her strength carried her for as long as her body possibly could," Wildlife Care of Southern California stated in a social media post. The organization decided that continuing treatment would only prolong her suffering. During her final days, Wendy was reportedly kept comfortable with medication and care.
Wendy's case highlighted the resilience of wild animals. Despite suffering a gunshot injury, a severe infection, and losing a portion of her jaw, she had continued to forage for food and navigate her environment. Rescuers chose not to release graphic images of her injuries, opting instead to remember her "fierce will to survive."
The Southern California Pit Bull Rescue has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible for shooting Wendy.