9-Year-Old Fends Off Coyote Attack During Game of Hide-and-Seek in Their Yard

9-Year-Old Bravely Fends Off Coyote Attack During Hide-and-Seek Game in Their Yard

In a heart-stopping incident, a 9-year-old child playing hide-and-seek with a 3-year-old companion in their own backyard in the Alameda neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, managed to escape a terrifying coyote attack. The incident occurred on October 23 around 6:15 p.m., as reported by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

According to wildlife officials, the coyote unexpectedly pounced on the child, grabbing them by the foot during the game. Quick thinking saved the day as the child managed to free their foot from the sock and make a run for safety. The persistent coyote chased after the child until the father intervened, scaring off the animal with loud shouts.

The child, whose identity remains undisclosed, sustained minor injuries from the attack and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Tragically, the bite did puncture the child’s skin, prompting necessary post-rabies exposure treatment, as confirmed by ODFW District Wildlife Biologist Dave Keiter in a statement to local ABC affiliate KATU.

In response to the alarming incident, ODFW swiftly dispatched wildlife staff to conduct a thorough investigation of the site. Flyers were distributed in the neighborhood, and a public notice was shared on social media to alert residents about the potentially dangerous encounter with the coyote. Authorities continue to closely monitor the area following the unsettling attack.

Keiter emphasized the rarity of such aggressive coyote behavior towards humans, attributing such incidents to factors like intentional or unintentional feeding of wildlife. To mitigate risks, the ODFW strongly discourages any form of coyote feeding, reminding the public that such actions not only endanger humans but also jeopardize the animals themselves.

The ODFW advises residents to eliminate accessible food sources for coyotes, refrain from feeding them intentionally or accidentally, and exercise caution around these wild animals. Pet owners are urged to keep their furry companions indoors or on leashes, while parents are reminded to supervise young children diligently to prevent potential wildlife encounters.

Coyotes, described as opportunistic omnivores, primarily feed on rodents, fruits, and nuts. However, they will scavenge for any available food, including waste, pet food, and occasionally small pets like outdoor cats. The ODFW stresses that coyotes are prevalent in Oregon and offers guidelines to mitigate conflicts with these creatures.

Following this alarming incident, the community is urged to remain vigilant and implement precautions to ensure the safety of both residents and wildlife. By raising awareness and promoting responsible coexistence with wildlife, the ODFW strives to prevent similar encounters and safeguard the well-being of all inhabitants.

As investigations continue and safety measures are reinforced, the courageous young child’s escape serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife awareness and preparedness in residential areas. The swift action taken by the child and their family highlights the significance of staying informed and alert in shared habitats with wildlife.