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A Thanksgiving Day disaster in Colorado Springs is a stark reminder of the need for proactive predator management…
A 4-year-old girl was attacked by a coyote near her home east of I-25, not far from the Air Force Academy, reports KOAA News5.
The girl and another child mistakenly approached the crouching predator, thinking it was a dog. The coyote lunged, biting the back of the girl’s head before her father scared it off.
She spent the night in the hospital but was thankfully released the next day.
This incident underscores why predator hunting and control are vital, especially for families living near wildlife-prone areas.
Wildlife officials from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) confirmed they could not identify the specific coyote responsible.
Any coyote found in the area in the coming days will be euthanized and tested for human DNA and diseases like rabies.
Why Predator Control is Necessary
Coyotes are naturally wary of humans, but that fear can diminish over time. According to CPW, coyotes can become aggressive if they’re fed, sick, or protecting their young. This makes them a danger to communities, particularly children and pets.
Predator hunting helps keep populations in check, maintaining the natural balance and reducing human-wildlife conflicts.
When predators like coyotes lose their fear of humans, attacks become more frequent and severe. Hunting serves as a critical deterrent, reinforcing their natural instincts to avoid populated areas.
Protecting Your Family
The CPW advises chasing off any wild animal that comes near your home. While this advice is sound, it’s not always practical or safe. Encountering a predator in your backyard can escalate quickly, as this family in Colorado Springs learned.
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Responsible predator hunting can mitigate these risks, preventing predators from becoming bold enough to approach residential areas in the first place.
The Bigger Picture
This harrowing event reminds us that the outdoors isn’t without risks. While coexistence with wildlife is a reality, it shouldn’t come at the cost of human safety.
Predator hunting plays a crucial role in keeping our communities safe while preserving the balance of nature. So, get out there and participate! Whether it’s through organized predator hunts, supporting wildlife management policies, or simply staying vigilant in your own backyard, your actions matter!
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