Coyote Confrontation in Seattle Park: A Close Call
A recent incident in Volunteer Park has raised concerns about the increasing boldness of urban coyotes. Cellphone footage from Thanksgiving weekend shows a coyote stalking small dogs in broad daylight, with a parkgoer shouting warnings and roaring to warn others.
The video, recorded by Jason Williams, captures a coyote approaching a group of dogs while people around them shout warnings. Williams, who was walking his own dog, described the coyote's behavior as unusual, stating, 'I’ve never seen it in the middle of the day, looking for a meal. That’s very strange.'
The coyote appeared focused on two other dogs nearby, and Williams took action by shouting and making loud noises to scare the animal off. He said, 'I was just concerned. I thought one of those dogs might get injured.'
Despite the close call, no injuries were reported, and the coyote eventually ran away. However, this incident has sparked discussions about the growing comfort of urban wildlife around people.
Seattle Parks and Recreation is working with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to monitor coyote activity in Volunteer Park and the Washington Park Arboretum. Officials confirm that some coyotes in these areas have become dangerously habituated to humans and human food. In some cases, trapping and euthanizing the coyotes may be necessary.
A coyote was recently killed in the Arboretum after reports of it snatching a leashed dog and taking a coat containing food from a parkgoer. Williams noted, 'Coyotes are getting more aggressive and less afraid of people.'
To address these concerns, warning signs have been posted in both parks, urging visitors to keep dogs leashed, avoid feeding coyotes, and take other precautions if a coyote shows aggressive behavior. Authorities advise calling 911 in the event of an attack or contacting the Department of Fish and Wildlife for non-emergency encounters.
