Mysterious Scratches on Tacoma

Well, for some reason, this is really bothering me to the point that I want others opinions, although it wont change the outcome. I recently noticed some mysterious deep scratches on my Tacoma. They are located in only two places - on the passenger side, front fender flare, and front fascia where the license plate mounts.

What’s weird is the way in which they were scratched. At first, I thought it might be someone who vanadalized the truck, but I am now thinking it may be an animal. It’s only on the plastic, no other damage on the truck...almost looks as if an animal gnawed on it or scratched at it. Pretty impressive claws if so..?

Kinda curious as to everyone’s thoughts - animals or vandals.

And yes, I live in a cabin so I am surrounded by squirrels, raccoons, cats and bears.

 

The first picture looks like it was vandalism. I see what you mean about the other two pictures. Have you had it on any trails lately or done anything that you could have rubbed up against? I've got some similar marks on my truck by the front licence plate that are from branches and small trees that I've gone over.

 

I don’t really think so, but there is a possibility that it could be from branches!