The Underestimated Predators
When we think of dangerous wild animals, lions and wolves often come to mind.
However, coyotes, a common sight in many urban areas, should not be underestimated.
While they typically shy away from adult humans, their potential for aggression, especially towards pets and children, cannot be ignored.
A Word of Caution for Pet Owners and Parents
The risk posed by coyotes necessitates vigilance from pet owners and parents alike.
Pets, especially smaller ones, are vulnerable when left to wander alone.
Similarly, young children playing outside should always be under adult supervision to prevent any unfortunate encounters with these wild animals.
Advice from Experts
The Urban Coyote Research Project provides crucial guidelines on dealing with coyotes.
Feeding them is a big no-no, as it encourages them to lose their fear of humans.
If you do encounter a coyote, running away is not advised.
Instead, stand your ground, make noise, yell, or throw something to scare them off.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Coyotes are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night.
This is when humans need to be most alert to the possibility of encountering these animals.
Keeping pets indoors during these hours is a wise precaution.
Daytime Encounters
Although less common, coyotes can also be seen during the day.
Daytime sightings are particularly concerning because these coyotes may not be afraid of humans, increasing the risk of an attack.
Coyote Attacks on Humans
While rare, coyotes have been known to attack humans.
According to a study, there were about 160 attacks in the United States and Canada from the 1980s to 2003.
Most victims were children, and the attacks often occurred during the coyotes’ breeding season, from March to August.
A Terrifying Incident in Los Angeles
This danger became a reality in a Los Angeles neighborhood where a coyote had been spotted for months.
The situation escalated when a 2-year-old girl was attacked by what was believed to be the same coyote last December.
A Father’s Courageous Response
The attack happened on December 2.
Ariel Eliyahuo had just returned home with his daughter Ariya from daycare.
While he was momentarily preoccupied, a coyote seized the opportunity to attack Ariya in their yard.
Recalling the incident to CNN, Eliyahuo said, “I heard Ariya scream. I thought she fell down. I ran immediately to see what was going on and I saw the coyote attack her. I picked her up in my arms and tried to make the coyote go away.”
His quick thinking included throwing a water bottle at the coyote to fend it off.
The Aftermath and Continued Vigilance
Following the attack, Ariya was rushed to the Emergency Room for treatment and rabies shots.
The local authorities initiated a search for the aggressive coyote, highlighting the ongoing need for caution and awareness in areas where coyotes are present.
Ariel Eliyahuo’s heroic actions undoubtedly saved his daughter from a more severe outcome.
To get a detailed view of this incident, be sure to watch the video below.
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