State police are asking for the public's help regarding the discovery of 11 deceased, juvenile animals 4 p.m. Nov. 23 off Quarry Road in the area of Lower Macungie Park, Lower Macungie Township.

The animals were discovered with their fur removed, some partially inside a plastic bag, according to state police.

Christine Wiggins, humane officer with the Lehigh County Humane Society spoke with the Press Nov. 26 regarding this incident.

She said the animals "were picked up from the vet yesterday and several were transported to a veterinary hospital for testing including a necropsy to determine cause of death." Wiggins said it will take several weeks for the results of the testing.

Lower Macungie Township Manager Bruce Fosselman said, "we are very saddened by this act, that someone could be that cruel. It tears my heart out. We are going to leave it to the state police to handle this matter."

Various news sources are now reporting the animals as foxes but that could not be independently confirmed by press time.

If the animals do turn out to be foxes, Pennsylvania is now in fox hunting season.

Hunting season for red, black or gray squirrels and fox in Pennsylvania is open Oct. 13 to Nov. 24; Dec. 10 to 24; and Dec. 26 to Feb. 23, 2013. There is a limit of six daily and 12 in possession.

Trapping season for coyote, fox, opossum, raccoon, skunks and weasels is Oct. 21 through Feb. 17. There is no limit.

Press Secretary for the PA Fish and Game Commission Jerry Feaser said it is unethical and illegal to dispose of remains from a hunt in a public area and particularly egregious near a park where children play.

"Generally you would throw it out with your normal household garbage," Feaser said.

He said some hunters might put the carcass on the edge of their property for the local scavengers but disposal in public areas would be considered littering.

This incident follows the discovery of what appeared to be a dog, which was allegedly skinned and cooked, along the edge of Route 863, (Golden Key Road), just south of Allemaengel Road, Lynn Township.

Police said in that discovery, the animal's feet were cut off and a rope was tied to its right rear leg.

Anyone with information on these incidents is asked to call State Police Troop M Fogelsville at 610-395-1438.