Watch out! Coyotes attack
Coyotes are attacking children in Winnipeg.
In the last ten days there have been as many as two attacks on people by coyotes in Winnipeg. The victims were 9 and 4 year old boys. In both cases, the children were injured and bitten, but their lives are safe. They have already been released from the hospital and sent home. The boys were rescued by concerned adults who drove the animals away by shouting. They gave the children first aid, calmed them down and called a doctor. According to police officers, coyotes very rarely attack people. They have already begun capturing the animals within the city limits. Healthy specimens will be taken away from people, and those with rabies will be put to sleep.
Where did the coyote infestation come from
Residents are concerned about these incidents and the growing population of small carnivores. Old-timers say they haven't seen so many coyotes in the past 50 years. They often roam the city, empty garbage cans and even prey on pets. Coyotes also chase domestic dogs on their walks: they see them as competitors for territory and resources, and may attack in an attempt to defend their place of residence.
Coyotes are probably driven to cities by climate change and forest fires. The latter affects not only the predators, but the other forest dwellers they hunt. Coyotes are refugees of sorts, going closer to humans for food and safety. However, these guests are often hungry and aggressive, and can also eat a domestic cat or small dog. They are afraid of adults, but can attack small children.
Safety rules
Winnipeg urges residents to take precautions. First, small children and pets should not be left unsupervised in low-traffic areas. Dogs should be kept on a leash when walking. It is advisable to carry a whistle, rocks in a metal can or pepper spray to ward off coyotes with a noise or a jet of stinging liquid.
Pets should not be allowed to go out on their own. Feed them at home, not outdoors, so food scraps don't attract uninvited guests.
If you spot a coyote in a park or on the street, stick together with other people and call the emergency services. You can chase away an attacking animal by becoming visually larger and making noise. For example, you can take off your jacket and unfold it over your head, or simply raise your hands in the air. Human shouting scares coyotes. The main thing is never to run away from them. The hunter's instinct will make the animal chase you, even if it didn't plan to attack.
