Child Injured in Rare Coyote Attack in Portland Neighborhood
A 9-year-old child was bitten by a coyote while playing hide-and-seek in a Portland backyard, prompting urgent warnings from Oregon wildlife officials about keeping children and pets safe outdoors. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) confirmed that the incident occurred Thursday evening around 6:15 p.m. in the city’s Alameda neighborhood.
According to the agency, two children—ages 9 and 3—were playing outside when a coyote suddenly appeared. The animal approached the older child and bit the child’s foot. At the time, the child was wearing socks but no shoes. The startled child managed to break free and run as the coyote chased after them.
The child’s father, who witnessed the attack from the porch, shouted loudly, scaring the animal away. The 9-year-old was later taken to a hospital and treated for minor injuries before being released.
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Officials Respond Quickly
Following the incident, ODFW staff launched an immediate investigation, canvassing the Alameda neighborhood to look for the animal and alert nearby residents. Flyers were distributed, and wildlife officers have continued to monitor the area in coordination with city, state, and federal partners.
Officials believe that increased coyote sightings in Portland may be linked to animals becoming too comfortable around humans—often because of intentional or accidental feeding. While coyote attacks are rare, experts warn that food attractants such as unsecured garbage, pet food, and compost bins can draw them into residential areas.
Public Safety Guidance
In response to the attack, ODFW urged residents to take extra precautions. Parents should supervise young children closely when they are outside, especially during early morning or evening hours when coyotes are most active. Pets should be kept indoors or on a leash.
Wildlife officials emphasized that coyotes can usually be scared off using loud noises, waving arms, or throwing small objects in their direction—tactics meant to reinforce their natural fear of humans.
“Under no circumstances should people provide food to coyotes or other predators,” ODFW said in a statement. “Feeding by humans is frequently associated with attacks and aggressive behavior.”
Rare but Alarming Encounter
Although Oregon occasionally reports coyote sightings in suburban areas, direct attacks on humans are extremely uncommon. Wildlife experts say this incident serves as a reminder that coyotes, while often shy, can become bold if they lose their fear of people.
Officials are continuing to investigate the attack and monitor the area for further coyote activity. Residents are encouraged to report sightings and to take preventive steps to reduce wildlife encounters.
The injured child is expected to make a full recovery, but the event has left many in the Portland community shaken—and newly aware of the risks that come when wild animals venture too close to home.
