Woman bitten by coyote while walking on Seawall

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) is once again warning Vancouverites about coyotes after a woman was bitten Tuesday.

The woman was attacked by a coyote and bitten on the calf while walking the seawall in Stanley Park Tuesday (April 6) evening around 9:15 p.m., according to a post by the BCCOS. The incident happened near Prospect Point Lighthouse west of Lions Gate Bridge. Conservation officers patrolled the area shortly after the attack, but didn't find any coyotes.

"Coyotes are more active at dawn and dusk and park users should consider avoiding those times," the service writes in the post. "If you choose to go to Stanley Park, there is a risk you could encounter an aggressive coyote."

They suggest people familiarize themselves with tips on dealing with coyotes. The province offers these tips:

• make yourself look as large as possible - if sitting, stand for example.
• Wave your arms and throw objects at the wolf or coyote.
• Shout at the wolf or coyote in a loud aggressive voice.
• If the wolf or coyote continues to approach don't run or turn your back. Continue to exaggerate the above gestures and slowly move to safety.

If you see an aggressive coyote, the BCCOS suggests calling the 'Report All Poachers and Polluters' line at 1-877-952-7277.

The #BCCOS is reminding the public that aggressive coyotes remain in #StanleyPark and to take precautions.

A woman suffered minor injuries after she was bit on the calf by a coyote while walking along the seawall last night: https://t.co/4IU62Rvrax @StanleyParkEco @ParkBoard pic.twitter.com/6CQC8Hd944

— BC CO Service (@_BCCOS) April 7, 2021