It was ironic that just yesterday, I was randomly thinking about coyote. Today, with the weather warming up, we decided to take a long walk. We walked from home to the Arboretum Community, entering via the St. John’s Sideroad entrance.
We strolled along the trail and ventured out onto Somerton Court before making our way to the playground at Thompson Park. Normally, we would continue all the way to Optimist Park, but the thought of a coyote in the area made me decide to cut our walk short. I couldn’t help but wonder if the coyote had heard us—maybe.
Around eleven in the morning, we were walking on the Pinnacle Trail. It was just us, a caregiver with three kids, and another couple. Matthew and another little boy were running ahead of us.
At one point, when we called out for them to come back, a dog emerged from Hamilton Park (the soccer field) and onto the Pinnacle Trail, heading west toward St. Andrew’s Golf Course. The dog was at least five houses away from us. By the time I reached the playground, he had already disappeared. By the way, it wasn’t a dog!
When I first saw it, I thought, “Oh great, another dog running loose.” But as it got closer, I realized it wasn’t a dog at all. It moved with purpose, not like a typical dog. It was definitely a coyote—a pretty big one at that—tall, slender, and rough-looking. It casually crossed the road and strolled along the sidewalk, passing by the nearby playground.
While strolling down Rush Road, we stumbled upon a messy pile of garbage. We figured the hungry coyote must have rummaged through it. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more of these sightings, especially with all the loose rabbits and chipmunks running around our neighborhood.
Hey, parents! Keep a close eye on your kiddos when they’re playing at the park. Those play structures can block your view, so stick close to your little ones, especially in areas with lots of open space and trees.
This was my second run-in with a coyote in Hamilton Park. The first time, I spotted one lurking around the soccer field. I’m not sure what we can do about the wildlife in our area, but staying alert and watching out for your little ones is important.
Sorry, no picture this time—I wasn’t quick enough with my camera. The shock of the unexpected always slows me down, and safety comes first.
COMMENTS
Max Coutinho said: June 14, 2012 at 14:14
“Hi Anna! A coyote?! Beep-beep…! LOL. Now seriously, I think they are out and about Washington as well (a Spanish exchange programme student spotted one in a woods near Washington DC, if my memory doesn’t fail me) and parents were a bit frightened. Loved the trees picture: so peaceful… My darling, I hope all is well with you and Matthew. Cheers”
