Almost does have that Werewolf appearance doesn't it? In reality, it is either a Coyote or Wolf suffering from Mange. I cannot tell which it is, as I
have no scale to determine its size, but it is one of the two no doubt. Mange is such a sad problem amongst wild animals, as it strips them of their
insulation and protective barrier, better known as their fur. Without this layer of protection, they will undoubtedly freeze to death, and in warmer
climates die of heat stroke. The condition is caused by Parasitic Mites which burrow into hair follicles, causing them to die off and fall out.
Domestic Animals can also suffer from the same ailment, and often do when neglected and abused. It can however be treated and cured, but unfortunately
for wild animals, they will most likely succumb to death as they obviously receive no veterinary treatment.
Here is a Timber Wolf with the lower half of the body having succumbed to severe Mange:
Here is a Coyote who had extremely severe Mange over its entire body. Fortunately a Hunter shot it dead, which in all reality saved it from
suffering:
Here is a comparison between a Normally Furred, Healthy Coyote, and a Sick Defurred, Manged Coyote:
Last but not least, take a look at these Two Wolf Pups suffering from Mange. They actually look very similar to this "creature" photographed in
Wisconsin:
[edit on 3-13-2008 by TheAgentNineteen]