Colorado authorities are “actively pursuing” a coyote that attacked a 4-year-old girl in Colorado Springs on Thanksgiving, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
The attack occurred late Thursday afternoon near Monument Creek and the Air Force Academy, east of Interstate 25, when the girl and another child approached the coyote, thinking it was a dog, the agency said.
The coyote, who was crouched behind a tree, lunged at the girl and grabbed her by the back of the head, seriously injuring her.
“If it weren't for the child's father's quick actions to stop the attack, rescue his daughter, and chase the coyote away, the situation could have been much worse and even more tragic,” said Tim, CPW's Pikes Peak Regional Wildlife Manager.・Kroening said.
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Authorities in Colorado Springs, Colorado, are tracking a coyote that attacked a 4-year-old girl on Thanksgiving Day, according to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department. (Jane Tiska/Digital First Media/Mercury News)
After the girl was released from the hospital on Friday, CPW was notified of the attack and an investigation and search for the animal was conducted.
“Like most wild animals, coyotes are naturally afraid of humans, but when they protect their young, are fed, or become ill, they can lose that fear and become bold and aggressive,” the agency said. ” he said.
Because it is impossible to identify the responsible coyote, CPW said any coyotes found near the attack area will be “lethally removed.”[d]” and sent to the Institute of Health Research to be tested for human DNA and disease.
A 4-year-old girl approached the coyote crouching behind a tree, thinking it was a dog. (St. Petersburg)
“We still don't know what brought the coyote into the yard with this child,” Kroening said. “However, this is an important reminder to everyone to remain vigilant and keep wild animals out of your home and neighborhood. That also applies to deer, foxes, bobcats, bears, and other animals. Don’t let them get comfortable around people.”
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Croning said if anyone encounters a coyote, they should throw a rock or yell at it. If the coyote appears aggressive, call CPW. Attempt to remove coyotes.
For the safety of children and pets, the agency also warned people not to feed coyotes, as they can become wild and frighten humans.
The Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife Conservation has issued a warning against feeding coyotes, as they are wild animals and should not become accustomed to being around humans. (St. Petersburg)
“In some cases, they preyed on small dogs and cats,” Kroening said. “And they can view pets as potential competitors for food.”
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The pursuit and investigation remain active, and the agency is asking for the public's “cooperation and understanding.”
