Coyotes are a regular presence across the Fremont and Wallingford area, with residents reporting encounters throughout the neighborhood over the past several years.
Sightings across the area are tracked on Carnivore Spotter, a community science tool run by Woodland Park Zoo and Seattle University. The map shows coyote reports spread across the broader neighborhood, alongside raccoon activity and at least one bobcat sighting north of the Cut. Residents can submit their own reports, with photos, directly on the site.
A few things worth knowing, according to Woodland Park Zoo’s urban carnivore resources:
Daytime sightings are normal. Coyotes aren’t strictly nocturnal, and a coyote out in daylight isn’t necessarily sick or rabid.
Howling doesn’t mean a large pack. Research from Texas A&M University found people typically double their estimate of coyote numbers when hearing vocalizations, two or three animals can sound like six.
The risk to people is very low. According to the zoo’s FAQ, only two human fatalities attributed to coyotes have been recorded in North America in recent history, and most pet conflicts occur when coyotes have been fed, intentionally or not.
The most effective precautions: be aware that outdoor cats are at higher risk, and don’t leave pet food or unsecured trash outside. If you encounter a coyote, yell, clap and make yourself look big.
Free Coexisting with Coyotes flyers from Woodland Park Zoo are available at community centers around the city.
To report a sighting or explore the local wildlife map, visit carnivorespotter.org.
Leave a Reply