‘The use of leghold traps has been banned in Massachusetts since 1975.’ 
Traps such as this have been banned statewide since 1975. / APD photo
— Arlington Police Chief Julie Flaherty
Laura Kiesel, a magazine writer, environmental activist and founder of the locally based group Save Arlington Wildlife, or SAW, said in a statement on the group’s website that she was glad the APD is following state protocols and “directly consulting with the Environmental Police and our state wildlife agency.” She added that “SAW hopes town officials will continue to invest significant time and resources in solving this case and ensuring the safety of our town’s inhabitants, both human and non-human.”
The first injured wild red fox was spotted the week of Sept. 15 around Avola and Udine streets, according to the APD. The police said that they immediately contacted the state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, aka MassWildlife, and also the state environmental police. However, neither that animal nor those responsible for setting the trap that injured its leg have yet been reported located.
Another one was found Sept. 30 around Hibbert Street. According to the APD release, it entered an open garage, officers barricaded it inside and were assisted by the environmental police and Newhouse Wildlife Rescue of Chelmsford. Although one of his legs had to be amputated, he was reported to be recovering. Again, no one has been arrested in connection with this incident.
‘SAW hopes town officials will continue to invest significant time and resources in solving this case and ensuring the safety of our town’s inhabitants, both human and non-human.’
— wildlife activist Laura Kiesel
The statement lists four specific steps that the group is urging the town to take. It also notes the assistance of two more agencies that helped in the successful rescue of and eventual achievement of veterinary treatment for the second wounded fox — Arlington Animal Control and the Lexington Police Department — and says that that survivor has been dubbed “Phoenix” for his resilience.
Kiesel’s statement includes the following: “Save Arlington Wildlilfe can assist the Town of Arlington in achieving these goals and hopes that these tragic incidents can serve as a powerful catalyst to reaching a better understanding of, and increased respect for, the wildlife we are fortunate to share our community with.”
Read the full text of the SAW statement here >>
Feb. 21, 2023: Demonstration at local store targets rat poison use Read more about saving wildlife
This article was published Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023, based on a news release sent by John Guilfoil Public Relations on behalf of the Arlington Police Department and interactions with and statements from Save Arlington Wildlife.
