Coyote shot to death in Rhode Island had illegal trap on leg

PORTSMOUTH, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island officials say a coyote shot to death on Aquidneck Island had an illegal trap attached to its leg.

Rhode Island’s Department of Environmental Management tells The Newport Daily News reports (https://bit.ly/2nHIros ) the coyote was killed legally by a property owner as the animal tried to get into a chicken coop.

But officials are investigating who might be responsible for setting the leg-hold trap that was found on the animal.

Another coyote ensnared in an illegal trap was killed in March by the Department of Environmental Management near Third Beach. The use of an illegal trap carries a maximum fine of $500 and a year in prison.

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Information from: The Newport Daily News.