Plymouth Raccoon Survives Arrow Shot Through Her Face; Person Responsible Remains Unknown

PLYMOUTH, MASS— Wildlife officials are caring for a raccoon that survived a horrific injury after an arrow was shot through her face in Plymouth. Authorities have not identified who was responsible for the incident.

The injured raccoon was first spotted by a Plymouth resident, who contacted the Cape Wildlife Center in Barnstable for assistance. The wildlife center directed the caller to Plymouth Animal Control because the animal was still moving around despite the serious injury.

Catching the raccoon proved difficult. Plymouth Animal Control officers reportedly spent approximately a week tracking the animal before finally managing to secure her.

Once the raccoon was safely contained, veterinary staff at the Cape Wildlife Center began examining her injuries.

X-rays revealed that an arrow had passed through the front of her face and exited through the back of her head. Veterinarians said the projectile narrowly missed several critical areas, including her eye and sinus cavity. Remarkably, the animal also suffered no skull fractures.

The arrow may have come from a small crossbow, although the exact weapon used has not been confirmed.

Dr. Priya Patel, medical director of the Cape Wildlife Center, described the raccoon as very feisty. Veterinary staff sedated her while she was still inside her cage to reduce stress and safely remove the projectile.

After the arrow was removed, the veterinary team cleaned the wound, applied antibiotic ointment and began treatment with antibiotics and pain medication.

Despite the traumatic experience, the raccoon is reportedly recovering well.

The animal will remain under veterinary care until her injuries have healed and she has completed her medication. Officials expect she will eventually be released back into the wild in the Plymouth area.

At this time, the person responsible for shooting the raccoon has not been identified.

The incident highlights the dangers wildlife can face from human activity and the important work performed by animal control officers and wildlife rehabilitation professionals.

Source: New Bedford Guide; Cape Wildlife Center; Popular Science.