Horrifically deformed coyote prowling SoCal neighborhood

A coyote with a shocking growth covering part of her face has become the latest four-legged celebrity to capture the internet’s attention.The predator, dubbed “Wendy” by locals and “Sunshine” by the East Valley Animal Shelter, has reportedly been roaming Studio City for more than a year with what appears to be a large abscess or growth stretching from her left eye toward the end of her snout.And she’s not the only bizarre-looking backyard visitor making headlines.The animal’s plight comes just as another seriously deformed critter known as “Jimothy” became an online sensation after turning up in Seattle.The raccoon’s truncated-looking backbone gives him an almost otherworldly appearance, prompting residents to track his movements through backyards and balconies and share sightings online.Now Wendy is getting her own fan club: Except her followers aren’t just looking for the next viral video — they desperately want to get her medical help.Wildlife Care of Southern California has spent the past four weeks trying to locate and safely capture the coyote.

Photos of the coyote show an alarming mass protruding across the left side of her face, but rescuers say there are some encouraging signs.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

Please provide a valid email.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Never miss a story “Her activity level and body condition are really good — all positive signs,” the group told KTLA.Still, they won’t know exactly what they’re dealing with until Wendy is captured and examined by a veterinarian, who will also perform X-rays to determine the extent of the growth and her prognosis.The organization is urging Studio City residents to keep an eye out and contact them if they spot her, while warning people not to attempt to capture or approach the animal themselves.Social media users have...