Tori Chang, on a routine stroll in rural Chattanooga, Tennessee, stumbled upon an unexpected sight – a seemingly frozen animal amidst the cold rain. Reacting swiftly to the distressing situation, Chang wasted no time in scooping up the creature and transporting it to safety in her car. Mistaking it for a fox due to its appearance, Chang affectionately bestowed upon the baby the name “Foxes to Save Wildlife.”
A Surprising Revelation
Upon sharing a photo of the supposed fox with rescuers at Fox Sake Wildlife Rescue, the response was far from what they anticipated. Rescuers were taken aback as the animal’s appearance didn’t quite align with that of a typical fox. Despite the initial confusion, the rescuers remained resolute in their commitment to provide care and support for the mysterious creature.
Meet Yoti, The Enigmatic Baby
The rescuers, intrigued by the unique appearance of the baby, decided to christen her “Yoti.” However, determining her exact species proved to be a perplexing task. While some speculated that she might be a Shepherd and Cur mix, others entertained the possibility of her being a hybrid of a coyote and a domestic dog. Without the aid of a DNA test, the mystery surrounding Yoti’s lineage persisted, adding to her enigmatic allure.
Speculation and Attention
Yoti’s unconventional appearance quickly captured the attention of many, prompting speculation and conjecture regarding her true identity. The rescue emphasized that Yoti’s brindle markings hinted at a domestic dog ancestor, effectively ruling out the possibility of her being a full-blooded coyote. Despite her striking features, Yoti’s temperament posed challenges for both domestic and wild environments, further adding to her intrigue.
The Revelatory DNA Results
After weeks of anticipation, the eagerly awaited DNA results finally arrived, providing much-needed clarity. The analysis revealed that Yoti indeed possessed genetic markers unique to domestic dogs, indicating a recent domestic dog ancestor. The results suggested a complex lineage involving interbreeding between domestic dogs and coyotes, ultimately culminating in Yoti’s distinctive appearance.
Conclusion: Yoti’s Future
Despite having a distant domestic dog relative, Yoti’s upbringing and treatment align with that of a wild animal. Consequently, plans are underway to transfer her to Walden’s Puddle, a wildlife rehabilitation center, where she will receive the necessary care to prepare her for eventual release back into the wild, where she truly belongs.
