A recent incident in Pasadena, California, captured on surveillance footage, revealed a startling encounter between a toddler and a coyote. The video shows a 3-year-old boy darting into the driveway, then abruptly stopping before, in a panic, he bolted away, yelling in fear.
Close behind him, a coyote was spotted following. As the animal passed through the yard, a loud scream—presumably from an adult—echoed in the background. According to local reports, the boy’s mother was right there when the frightening moment unfolded.
Ida Sveldt, the mother, recalled the scene, saying, “The monkey, as usual, left the gate before me. Then I heard a scream and the monkey came running back. He grabbed my leg and I screamed because I saw a big, huge coyote.” Once the scream rang out, the coyote was seen retreating on camera.
Fortunately, the child, named Salvo, was unharmed despite the close encounter.
While coyotes are common in Southern California’s foothills, Sveldt mentioned she had never experienced one venturing into her yard before. “We’ve seen them, but usually just on the streets,” she shared, noting her previous lack of concern. But, after this incident, her perspective shifted. “This one was bigger and scary, and I never expected it to target a child,” she added, emphasizing the shocking nature of the encounter.
Experts explain that during breeding season, animals like coyotes become more active and curious as they search for mates and food. Although these creatures are native to California and help control rodent populations, they are also known to occasionally prey on small pets, and in rare instances, humans.
