A cyclist traveling through Cape Breton Highlands National Park recently shared his encounter with an aggressive coyote that bit him, emphasizing that the incident did not overshadow his overall positive experience on the Cabot Trail.
Alex Radu, hailing from Ontario, recounted being at the MacIntosh Brook campsite admiring the moon when the coyote suddenly approached him. Despite his efforts to intimidate the animal by making himself appear larger and making noise, the coyote persisted, prompting Radu to retreat to safety in a nearby building.
After realizing his pant leg was torn and discovering bite marks on his leg, Radu sought medical attention for his minor wounds. He expressed a mix of emotions, acknowledging the necessity of park staff euthanizing the coyote while also feeling compassion for the animal.
Parks Canada confirmed the presence of an aggressive coyote in the area and advised visitors to back away slowly if faced with a similar situation. The affected locations remain closed as a precautionary measure.
Despite the incident, Radu highlighted the positive aspects of his trip, mentioning serene moments like swimming in a nearby creek. Parks Canada continues to monitor the situation and offers safety tips, including the use of bear spray and walking sticks as deterrents against coyotes.
The park staff’s efforts aim to ensure the well-being of visitors, with patrols ongoing in the affected areas. The fall season’s beauty in the park is highlighted, encouraging visitors to explore while remaining cautious.