Colorado authorities hunting coyote after attack on young child
Authorities in Colorado are on a mission to track down a coyote that viciously attacked a 4-year-old girl in Colorado Springs on Thanksgiving Day. The incident occurred in a neighborhood east of Monument Creek and Interstate 25, near the Air Force Academy, when the young girl and another child mistakenly approached the coyote, believing it to be a dog.
The coyote, concealed behind a tree, suddenly lunged at the girl and clutched the back of her head, inflicting serious injuries. Thanks to the prompt action of the child’s father, who intervened to stop the attack, the girl was rescued from further harm. Tim Kroening, CPW’s Area Wildlife Manager for the Pikes Peak region, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the outcome could have been far worse if not for the father’s quick response.
CPW was alerted to the incident the following day after the girl was discharged from the hospital. An investigation was promptly launched, and efforts to locate the aggressive animal were initiated. Coyotes, like most wildlife, typically fear humans but can become emboldened and aggressive under certain circumstances, such as when they are protecting their young, sick, or being fed.
As the specific coyote responsible for the attack cannot be identified, CPW has announced that any coyote found in the vicinity of the incident will be lethally removed. These animals will then be sent to a health lab for examination to determine if they carry human DNA or any diseases.
Kroening stressed the importance of remaining vigilant and deterring wild animals from approaching homes and neighborhoods. He advised residents to take precautions and discourage deer, foxes, bobcats, bears, and other wildlife from becoming comfortable around human populations.
If individuals encounter a coyote, Kroening recommended throwing rocks or making loud noises to scare the animal away. In cases where a coyote displays aggressive behavior, CPW should be contacted immediately for assistance in removing the animal. Additionally, the agency issued a reminder against feeding coyotes to ensure they retain their natural fear of humans, safeguarding the well-being of children and pets.
Coyotes have been known to attack small dogs and cats as potential sources of food, posing a threat to domestic animals. The ongoing pursuit and investigation into the coyote attack require the public’s cooperation and understanding as authorities work to address the situation effectively.
