This story was spun as though it was against PETA, but it is actually PETA placing these on remote trails to get hunters.
Man injured by ‘nail trap’ with words ‘PETA paybak’ on it in NC wilderness
“Man injured by ‘nail trap’ with words ‘PETA paybak’ on it in NC wilderness - The Virginian-Pilot - The Virginian-Pilot” https://www.pilotonline.com/news/vp-nw-nail-trap-north-carolina-20201027-72ibq36uznevppwttcurjwtmiq-story.html?outputType=amp
The area is used by hunters as well as by mountain bikers and hikers. Mayo said the words “PETA paybak” were written on the trap and another one that he found, possibly referring to the group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
Mayo said PETA wouldn’t have been involved because the traps are more likely to hurt an animal than a person.
“If a bear stepped on them, it would get an infection and die,” he said.
I can’t post the picture from my phone, but it is definitely done by PETA to get hunters.