Incident in the Alameda Neighborhood
A frightening encounter between a coyote and a young child in Portland’s Alameda Neighborhood has prompted state wildlife officials to issue a safety warning to residents. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), the incident occurred on October 23 around 6:15 p.m., when two children—ages nine and three—were playing hide-and-seek in their yard.
Officials reported that the coyote approached the nine-year-old and grabbed the child’s foot. The child was only wearing socks and managed to slip free by shaking the sock off before running toward the house. The animal chased the child, but the child’s father—who was on the front porch—began yelling, scaring the coyote away.
Minor Injuries and Medical Treatment
The child was taken to a hospital and treated for minor injuries, according to ODFW. Although the bite broke the skin, the injury was not considered serious.
“Luckily, the kid was not seriously injured,” said Dave Keiter, district wildlife biologist for ODFW. “The bite did break the skin, so they’re receiving post-rabies exposure shots, but it was not a major attack—just a minor bite.”
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ODFW Response and Public Warning
Following the incident, ODFW officials conducted a site investigation in the neighborhood on October 24, distributing flyers and posting warnings on social media to alert the community. Signs were also placed throughout Alameda reading, “Coyotes live here,” to remind residents of the growing presence of these animals.
In a press release, ODFW confirmed that staff are monitoring the area, speaking with neighbors, and coordinating with the City of Portland and other local agencies to determine next steps for public safety. The department has also partnered with conservation groups to manage human–wildlife interactions responsibly.
Safety Guidance for Residents
ODFW urged residents—especially parents—to closely supervise young children playing outdoors. The department also emphasized the importance of hazing coyotes to discourage them from becoming comfortable around people.
Officials advised community members to:
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Yell or make loud noises to scare off coyotes
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Use airhorns or bang pots and pans if a coyote approaches
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Throw small objects in the animal’s direction (without causing harm)
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Remove food sources like pet food, compost, and fallen fruit
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Never feed coyotes or wild animals
Feeding wildlife is not only dangerous but illegal under Oregon law (ORS 496.731). Research shows that human feeding is often linked to aggressive coyote behavior and attacks.
Community Reactions and Concerns
Several Alameda residents expressed concern about the growing number of coyotes in the area. Zach Hoffelt, a neighbor, said his dog once tried to approach one of the animals. “He saw one at the neighbors’ and wanted to make a new friend,” Hoffelt said. “We told him, ‘Nope, that’s not a good choice for a new friend.’”
Another resident, Kerry Gilley, said she was not surprised by the presence of coyotes but shocked that one attacked a child. “I think people are feeding them or leaving water out,” she said. “That’s why there are so many now.” Gilley added that she has had to pick up her small dogs during walks to protect them.
Longtime resident Michelle Bradley encouraged neighbors to stay alert but not panic. “They’re wild animals, not pets,” she said. “Be smart and keep your kids and pets safe. They’re just trying to survive.”
Coyotes in Urban Areas
According to the Portland Urban Coyote Project, coyotes in Northeast Portland—particularly in the Alameda and surrounding neighborhoods—have shown bolder behavior recently, especially during the fall. Coyotes are known to live across Oregon in urban, suburban, and rural areas, feeding mainly on rodents, fruits, and nuts, but they will also scavenge food waste, pet food, and small animals.
Reporting Encounters
ODFW urges residents to report any aggressive coyote behavior or concerning encounters involving people or pets. In emergencies or if an attack occurs, call 911 immediately.
Officials continue to investigate the incident and monitor the area closely, emphasizing that community awareness and cooperation are key to keeping Portland neighborhoods safe.
