Jason Contreras posted the following video Saturday night to the Miami Springs Community Group on Facebook. It appears to show a coyote running along the Melrose canal toward the intersection of Lenape and Hunting Lodge Drive.
Of course, this isn’t the first time there’s been a coyote spotted in Miami Springs. Back in December, a coyote was targeting ducks in the backyard of a resident’s home. Police were called to respond. After assessing the background, the officer on scene determined it was safe and discharged his duty weapon and killed the coyote.
In a statement at the time, former Miami Springs Police Chief Matthew Castillo stated: “This outcome is never what we prefer, but the decision was made after thorough evaluation and with the sole intent of protecting the residents of Miami Springs.”
I know some folks don’t like the idea of killing coyotes. Some residents say, “They were here before us.”
Well, that’s not true. When Miami Springs was incorporated back in 1926, there still weren’t coyotes east of the Mississippi River. However, as wolves, eastern cougars, and even jaguars were wiped out, the cunning coyote has took their place as a primary predator. And that wasn’t a typo. Yes, there used to be Jaguars in the Appalachians.
We also used to have the Florida Black Wolf.
And of course, the Florida Panther is still an endangered species.
In the meantime, Miami Springs has been invaded with a massive influx of invasive species like the Muscovy Ducks.
Or the Green Iguanas.
Coyotes are predators. They kill small animals to survive. Those small animals can include our local ducks. Some might say the ducks are overpopulated and we need a predator.
However, coyotes are opportunistic. Today, it might be a duck. Tomorrow, it’s your pet Chihuahua.
Today, coyotes are found in every county in the State of Florida. And it’s becoming obvious, that sightings are becoming more common.
Here are some tips on what to do if you find yourself face to face with a coyote:
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Do not run or turn your back: Running can trigger a coyote’s predatory instinct to chase. Maintain eye contact and stand your ground.
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Get big and loud (Hazing): Wave your arms above your head to appear larger. Yell firmly and aggressively (do not scream). If you have them, use noisemakers like a whistle, an air horn, or bang keys together.
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Secure small children and pets: Pick up small dogs or children immediately. If you are walking a larger dog, keep them on a short leash and put yourself between the dog and the coyote.
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Back away slowly: Once the coyote stops advancing or seems unsure, continue facing it while slowly backing away toward a safe, populated area or indoors.
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Throw projectiles: If the coyote does not retreat after yelling, throw sticks, stones, or anything nearby toward it—but avoid hitting it directly in the head. The goal is to scare it, not injure it, which could provoke a defensive attack.
If a coyote is acting unusually bold, aggressive, or lingering in high-traffic neighborhoods during the day without fear, report the sighting to the Miami Springs Police Department at 305.888.9711.
Related Articles:
Message from Miami Springs Police Chief Matthew Castillo re: Coyote Incident
