This morning on my way to "town" to pick up a few things I spotted an animal just off the highway in the ditch. I noted as I drove by that its head was up yet certain that it wouldn't be just lying down in that location. After turning around to get a better look I headed out of the canyon to where there would be a cell signal in order to make some calls and try to locate a wildlife rehabilitator who might be able to help this animal. Sadly, what I found out was that in this state - still hopelessly mired in far too many ways in the 19th century - it is illegal for a rehabber to try to help certain animals.

Reluctantly, I chose the only other real option: contact the State Division of Wildlife Resources who would then send out an officer to "take care" of this creature. Though it brings tears to my eyes, better that than know that this beautiful Red Fox would otherwise lie there, suffering, until the final moment inevitably came.