Toddler Flees as Coyote Chases Him in Broad Daylight Outside Pasadena Home
PASADENA, Calif. — A 3-year-old boy had a frightening encounter with a coyote in broad daylight outside his family home in Pasadena, California, an incident captured on surveillance video that has since raised concerns about urban wildlife interactions. The footage shows the toddler running onto the driveway before suddenly freezing, then turning and fleeing in terror as the coyote gave chase.
The video, obtained by local news outlet KABC-TV, reveals the boy’s panic as he lets out a terrified shriek while sprinting back toward his house. Moments later, the coyote appears on camera, closely trailing the child through the front yard. A loud scream, apparently from the boy’s mother, echoes shortly after, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
“Sal went out the gate like he always does before me,” the boy’s mother, Aida Svelto, told KABC-TV. “Then I heard a scream, and Sal came running back. He grabbed onto my legs, then I screamed because I saw a big, giant coyote.” The mother’s quick response likely prevented a more dangerous outcome as the coyote retreated after the confrontation.
Encounters between coyotes and humans have become increasingly common in Southern California, where urban expansion has encroached on natural habitats. The National Park Service notes that coyotes are highly adaptable and often venture into suburban neighborhoods in search of food.
Local authorities and wildlife experts recommend that residents remain vigilant and take precautions to discourage coyotes from approaching homes, especially where small children and pets are present. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife advises securing garbage, removing pet food from outdoor areas, and supervising children while outside.
While attacks on humans are rare, the recent incident in Pasadena highlights the need for awareness and preparedness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides guidelines on how to respond to wildlife encounters safely, emphasizing that people should never approach or feed wild animals.
Pasadena residents have expressed growing concern about coyote activity in the area. The city’s animal control division has increased patrols and is working with wildlife agencies to educate the public on coexistence strategies.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between urban living and wildlife habitats. As communities continue to expand into natural areas, encounters like this may become more frequent, underscoring the importance of community awareness and wildlife management efforts.
For more information on coyote safety and urban wildlife management, residents are encouraged to visit resources such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local government websites.
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