While looking into possible Red Wolf (Canis rufus) genetics found in a Coastal Louisiana Coyote (Canis latrans) populations, biologist Dr. Joseph Hinton set a trap. Sadly, when a Coyote, later named LA25M was caught in this trap, his leg was irreversibly damaged. Joe decided to bring this Coyote to a vet and get the leg amputated, an unusual procedure when working with study animals, but possibly better than euthanizing the canid. Shortly after the surgery, the LA25M was released with a radio collar and monitored to determine his use of territories. Turns out this Coyote did quite well, regardless of the amputation.

When I read Joe’s paper, I was intrigued and had to ask about an interview. Graciously, he replied and we set one up.

Joe and I discuss his working getting to know Red Wolf genetics present in Gulf Coast Coyotes, why it may be important to keep track of the mixing of Red Wolf and Coyote DNA, and what a three-legged Coyote may get up to on their home range, and off of it, once released. It’s a pretty cool story. Worth a listen.

To learn more :
Space use and fate of a three-legged coyote – a case study by Joseph W. Hinton, Kelsey San Martin, Kristin E. Brzeski, Jazmin J. Murphy, & Amy C. ShuttWolf Conservation Center