Coyotes are known for being sneaky — even wily if you will.
Normally, that sneakiness and elusiveness benefit these creatures. They can slink around in woods, neighborhoods, and even cities, nab some food, and get to a safe space all without being seen, which keeps them safe from larger animals, especially humans.
But sometimes, that natural inclination toward sneakiness can be dangerous, even fatal.
That was the danger in the case of a little coyote spotted on a golf course in Ottawa, Canada.
He was injured, likely having been hit by a car, and was also suffering from sarcoptic mange, a skin parasite that causes the fur to fall out and often results in death. In this coyote’s case, the lack of fur was especially dangerous in the Canadian winter.
Coyotes are definitely not domestic animals and can be dangerous to pets and children. Normally, they should be left alone or handled only by professionals. But while they’re known for their craftiness and trickiness, they can also surprise us with their sweetness.
And sometimes they really do need some help, even if they don’t realize it.
Concerned humans called animal control when they saw the injured, sick coyote, and (humane) traps were set in order to bring the animal to get some help.
However, fear and instinct kicked in and the coyote continued to elude the rescuers. They were worried because the longer the coyote stayed out in the cold, the lower his chances of survival became.