Blue Dog Event

Every animal is a victim but at the same time, the predator. It’s known as a cycle wherein an animal eats smaller or weaker animals to survive but at the same time, this same animal is vulnerable to being eaten by stronger and larger animals. The coyote though is unique because it’s more predator than victim.

It has caused other animals to be endangered like the tortoise which has been put on the endangered animals list a few years back. In an attempt to save the tortoise, the US army brought approximately 760 of them to an open public space where no one lives or goes to. Yet within months 14 of these protected tortoises were killed by coyotes.
 
In the US, almost 100,000 coyotes are killed. They are considered to be a menace to livestock and humans. They also like to attack and devour crops. Over the years, they have become more aggressive and bold. Their natural habitat which is forests has been cleared to make room for progress. This led to their forced to adapt to new environments. This is why you may hear stories about coyotes in neighborhoods and urban areas. They have no choice but to try and look for food in new places since their homes have been destroyed.
 
Who’s to blame? Coyotes have always had a bad reputation as a predator and dangerous animal but with what’s happening lately, they’re bound to be hated as a species. The fact is, coyotes are by nature shy. They hide from strangers and do not like being seen. They come out only when they are hungry and have nothing to eat. They are not scared of humans, but they are considered wild animals and will not hesitate to attack especially children – which would explain why they have attacked children many times.
 
They do like to howl which makes them even more threatening and scary. Call them the urban legend of animals where they are usually the first to be blamed when an animal goes missing.
The recent spate of wild fires has also caused the coyotes to lose their food source and venture into towns and cities looking for food. Any sighting should be reported immediately to the proper authorities. These are dangerous animals because they are angry and hungry.

One of the most potentially dangerous situations is being faced by strange animal and not knowing what to do. Children are likely to want to approach animal unless it is showing aggressive behavior. They need to be taught as early as possible to stay away from animals, even pets.

Some of the signs that show an animal that is infected or diseased would be unusual saliva dripping or drooling, difficulty in moving, whining or screeching, being aggressive and angry, moving slowly. If any of these signs are present, avoid any abrupt movements. If you can, look for an escape route first before trying to make a mad dash at any direction. Try to find a way you can get out of range like going up a wall or tree. It would make sense to have someone with you when you take a hike in a strange new place, but if not, make sure someone knows your whereabouts.
However, attacks can happen and your most immediate concern should be first aid and preventing an infection.
Wash the area that the animal touched or bit. Use lots water and soap to remove traces of saliva just in case the animal is rabid. See a doctor as soon as possible. Even if nothing happens after the attack and you are safe and unharmed, do call authorities and notify them of the danger you just had to face. There’s no sense in letting it happen to someone else.
If you are in a new place where you know animals roam freely, bring along someone who knows the area. You can also carry something in your pocket that could deter the animal without permanently harming it. Ask locals what they use and where you can get them.
Animal behavior is usually unpredictable if the animal is hungry, angry, or sick. You would do well to think like a Boy Scout or brownie even if you’re way past that age. As for being in your area and facing a strange animal, this can be avoided if you animal-proof your home. Cover all garbage cans and never leave food exposed or rainwater sitting outdoors for long. If you can, fence in your property to keep wild animals or even strays away from your home.