‘Infuriating, heartbreaking’: Raccoon recovering after getting caught in leg trap at Mecklenburg County park

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – A raccoon is fighting for its life after it got caught in a leg trap at a Mecklenburg County park this week.

North Carolina Wildlife Rehab said a group of children found the raccoon stuck in a leg trap at a Mecklenburg County park on Thursday, June 18, but did not specify which park.

“This is absurd, infuriating, and heartbreaking,” a spokesperson said. “Just think about how many animals may have already been harmed—and how many babies may have been orphaned because of this.”

Raccoon had heat stroke, front legs trapped

Wildlife Rehab said it’s unclear how long the raccoon was trapped, but both of his front legs were caught.

Thankfully, his legs were not broken; however, he suffered heat stroke and had a body temperature of 105.4 degrees.

“Please keep this sweet boy in your thoughts and prayers as he fights to recover,” a spokesperson said.

Multiple traps found on property

The children reportedly found the trap attached to a fence on an adjoining property, and investigators said officers found several more during their search.

“Thankfully, the kids did not attempt to free the raccoon themselves, though that easily could have happened,” a spokesperson said. “Instead, they immediately got their parents, who then contacted Animal Control.”

Officials said the raccoon was the second animal caught in a leg trap, and both incidents occurred at parks in Mecklenburg County.

Wildlife Rehab said the traps are illegal and cited animal cruelty. In North Carolina, however, foothold traps aren’t entirely illegal, but they’re strictly regulated by state law. They can be used in Mecklenburg County if they comply with state guidelines for trap size, jaw type, and proper tagging.

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As of this writing, no arrests have been made, and no charges have been filed.