A cyclist traveling through Cape Breton Highlands National Park recently recounted a brief but alarming encounter with an aggressive coyote that left him with a bite wound. Despite this incident, the individual, identified as Alex Radu from Ontario, emphasized that the overall experience along the Cabot Trail was predominantly peaceful.
Radu recalled the unsettling moment when the coyote suddenly approached him while he was admiring the moon at the MacIntosh Brook campsite. He described attempting to intimidate the animal by making loud noises and gestures to deter it, but the coyote persisted in its advances, prompting him to retreat to safety at a nearby building.
Only after seeking refuge did Radu notice the torn pant leg and bite marks on his leg. Although the injuries were minor, they required medical attention. Reflecting on the encounter, Radu admitted to feeling a rush of fear and adrenaline during the ordeal.
Following the incident, Radu promptly informed park authorities and received necessary medical aid, including a rabies vaccine as a precautionary measure. Subsequently, Parks Canada confirmed the euthanization of a coyote in the MacIntosh Brook area due to its abnormal behavior indicative of potential food conditioning.
Allison Moody, an ecologist with Parks Canada, advised visitors on safety protocols when encountering aggressive wildlife, emphasizing the importance of slowly backing away while maintaining eye contact with the animal. Moody also suggested using bear spray and walking sticks as additional deterrents, cautioning on their proper use and limitations.
Despite the unsettling encounter, Radu expressed appreciation for the overall positive experiences he had during his visit to Cape Breton Highlands National Park. As park staff continue to monitor the situation, visitors are urged to report any wildlife encounters and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the park.