Coyote gains weight after making daring swim to Alcatraz

An adventurous coyote has captivated observers after successfully swimming over a mile across San Francisco Bay to reach Alcatraz Island. The animal, currently without a name, is reportedly thriving on the 22-acre island, benefiting from an abundant food source.

A Remarkable Journey and Rapid Recovery

The coyote’s arrival on Alcatraz earlier this month was documented in a viral video. Since then, the animal has demonstrably improved its condition. A recent photograph, taken January 24th, shows a significantly healthier coyote than the emaciated animal that first made landfall.

Did You Know? Alcatraz Island was transferred to the National Parks Service in 1972.

A Diet of Opportunity

The coyote’s improved health is attributed to a readily available food supply: the island’s bird population. The animal has been observed consuming fowl and leaving carcasses near the parade grounds. Janet Kessler, a self-taught naturalist who documents San Francisco’s urban coyote population, reported that the coyote “not only survived, but he is well and thriving.”

Aidan Moore, who works for Alcatraz City Cruises, noted the visible change in the coyote’s condition, stating, “He’s certainly much fatter than when he arrived.”

Expert Insight: The coyote’s successful navigation and adaptation to Alcatraz highlight the resilience and resourcefulness of urban wildlife. The situation presents a unique challenge for park management, balancing wildlife preservation with the protection of the island’s existing ecosystem.

Future Uncertainties

While the coyote is currently flourishing, its long-term residency on Alcatraz is not guaranteed. Park officials are actively monitoring the animal to assess its impact on the seabird breeding colony. If the coyote interferes with nesting birds, it may be relocated to the mainland.

Some, like Kessler, advocate for allowing the coyote to remain on the island, arguing that relocation is often detrimental to the animal’s well-being and that the coyote poses no threat to humans. She believes the animal should be allowed to live the life it has chosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the coyote get to Alcatraz?

The coyote swam over a mile across San Francisco Bay to reach Alcatraz Island.

What is the coyote eating on Alcatraz?

The coyote is primarily feeding on fowl found in the bird nests near the island’s parade grounds.

Could the coyote be removed from Alcatraz?

Yes, if the coyote interferes with the nesting birds, officials say it may be relocated to the mainland.

What does this unusual situation suggest about the adaptability of wildlife in urban environments?