Wildlife officers shot and killed three coyotes at the San Francisco Botanical Garden over the weekend after a coyote attacked a 5-year-old girl, authorities said Monday.
Coyotes Eliminated After Attack
Two coyotes were shot on Saturday, and one was shot on Sunday, according to Patrick Foy, a spokesperson for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. This action was taken following the coyote attack on a young girl.
Details of the Attack
A coyote bit the 5-year-old girl on Friday while she was playing during a supervised summer camp visit at the garden within Golden Gate Park. The girl was treated for the bite wound at a hospital, her mother, Helen Sparrow, told the San Francisco Chronicle.
Procedure for Dealing with Attacking Wildlife
“If a coyote or bear or mountain lion attacks a person, those animals are euthanized, and we conduct a rabies test on them post-mortem and take DNA samples,” Foy said Monday morning. This is standard protocol to ensure public safety and assess the health risks posed by the animal.
DNA Testing to Identify the Attacker
Officers were able to retrieve a DNA sample from the girl’s wound. Scientists on Monday were attempting to use that sample to identify which coyote attacked her. If none of the samples match, agents may need to trap or kill other coyotes in the park, Foy said.
Reopening of the Garden
The garden reopened Monday after being closed following the attack. This closure was necessary to address the immediate threat and ensure the safety of visitors.
Mother’s Account of the Incident
Sparrow told the Chronicle that her daughter had begun to run but tripped and the coyote “bit her on the bum when she was down.” This account highlights the sudden and unexpected nature of the attack.
Medical Response and Treatment
Doctors stitched up the bite wound and administered a rabies vaccine, though they told Sparrow that coyotes rarely test positive for rabies, the Chronicle reported. This precautionary measure is crucial in preventing any potential infections.
Community Reaction
The attack and subsequent killing of the coyotes have sparked discussions within the community about wildlife management and public safety. Many are concerned about the increasing interactions between humans and wildlife in urban areas.
Importance of Wildlife Management
This incident underscores the importance of effective wildlife management practices in urban parks and recreational areas. Ensuring the safety of visitors while maintaining the natural habitat for wildlife is a delicate balance that requires continuous monitoring and intervention.
Role of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife plays a critical role in managing wildlife populations and responding to incidents like this. Their efforts are aimed at protecting both the public and the wildlife.
Preventive Measures
Authorities are likely to implement additional preventive measures to minimize the risk of future attacks. This may include increased monitoring, public education on how to behave around wildlife, and habitat management practices to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
Education and Awareness
Raising awareness among visitors about the presence of wildlife and appropriate behavior when encountering animals is essential. This can help prevent incidents and ensure a safer environment for everyone.
Long-Term Solutions
Long-term solutions may involve habitat modifications to discourage coyotes from frequenting areas with high human activity. This could include securing food sources, modifying landscaping, and other deterrent measures.
Supporting the Victim and Family
Support for the victim and her family is crucial in the aftermath of such a traumatic event. Providing counseling and resources can help them cope with the experience and recover emotionally.
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