Coyote Thrives on Alcatraz After Crossing Bay

Since making a daring swim of over a mile across San Francisco Bay, a coyote now residing on Alcatraz Island has become “much fatter,” courtesy of the island’s abundance of birds.

This unnamed coyote is reportedly living a “happy and healthy” life on the 22-acre island, feasting on poultry and leaving behind carcasses, much to the chagrin of state officials.

“He not only survived but is thriving,” remarked Janet Kessler, a self-taught naturalist, as she shared updates on her Instagram account, noting a record of San Francisco’s urban coyote population.

Recent photos captured the animal relaxing in the sun, looking significantly healthier than when it was first seen—an emaciated creature that had just swum to the rocky shores of the former prison. This transformation marks a remarkable shift in just two weeks since its impressive journey from the mainland.

Many believe the coyote’s newfound vitality can be attributed to its diet, which consists largely of birds found in the numerous nests around the historic island’s parade grounds. Here, the coyote has also been leaving behind carried-off remains.

“He was definitely a lot heavier than when he arrived,” shared Aidan Moore from Alcatraz City Cruises. “We really can’t say how long he’ll stay here because, you know, if he starts bothering the birds, he might have to be moved back to the mainland.”

This coyote stands as the first and only individual to inhabit Alcatraz since it became part of the National Park Service in 1972.

Officials from the Service mentioned that park biologists are closely monitoring the coyote’s activities to better understand its survival on the island, as well as to evaluate any potential effects on nearby seabird colonies.

However, advocates like Kessler are urging park rangers to allow the coyote to enjoy its new home. “He went through so much to get here. If he can thrive, we should let him live his life here. Relocation can be really harmful, and many coyotes don’t make it,” Kessler argued. “This coyote poses no threat to people. He’s likely to keep his distance.”

“Let’s take a step back, admire what wild animals can accomplish, and resist the urge to control nature,” she concluded.