A coyote’s adventurous swim across the San Francisco Bay to Alcatraz Island has wildlife observers buzzing with excitement, as it seems this resilient creature is thriving in its new environment.
Captured in a video by an anonymous tourist earlier this month, the drenched and shivering coyote can be seen struggling to reach the rocky shores of the historic former prison. The journey spans approximately 1.25 miles through cold, swift waters, making the animal's endeavor quite impressive.
Janet Kessler, a self-taught naturalist who has been documenting urban coyotes in San Francisco for years, expressed her worries about the coyote's chances of survival after such a taxing swim. The exertion would have significantly depleted its body heat and energy, leaving it in dire need of food, water, and warmth on an island that offers very few resources.
However, nearly two weeks later, a photo taken by another visitor and shared by Kessler shows what appears to be a healthy, well-fed coyote on Alcatraz. "Not only did he survive, but he is also doing remarkably well," Kessler noted.
Alcatraz itself is roughly 22 acres, which is significantly smaller than the typical territories that coyotes usually roam. According to the National Park Service, coyote families typically maintain territories that can cover several miles.
Aidan Moore, an employee with Alcatraz City Cruises, mentioned that the coyote has taken up residence near the parade grounds, where many birds nest. Moore also pointed out that several bird carcasses have recently been discovered around the island, suggesting the coyote has found a food source. "He’s definitely gained weight since his arrival," Moore remarked. "We’re uncertain how long he will stay, as he might be relocated to the mainland if he disrupts the nesting birds."
This marks the first time a coyote has been documented on Alcatraz since it became part of the National Park Service in 1972. The park's staff and biologists are closely observing the coyote to better understand its adaptation to island life and to evaluate any potential effects on the seabird breeding colony there.
Kessler advocates for allowing the coyote to remain on Alcatraz, arguing, "He worked hard to reach the island; if he can manage to survive here, we should let him stay." She, along with a researcher from UC Berkeley, theorized that the coyote likely left the mainland due to competitive pressures from the city’s population of around 20 coyote families. Each family fiercely defends its territory against outsiders, and with limited options for young coyotes to disperse—given that about 30 are killed by vehicles in San Francisco each year—this particular coyote took the bold step of swimming to Alcatraz.
Christopher Schell, an assistant professor at UC Berkeley specializing in urban carnivore behavior, noted that while coyotes rarely exhibit such swimming stamina, it’s not entirely without precedent. He recalled instances of coyotes swimming up to three miles to islands near Seattle and Tacoma, Washington. "We are just beginning to appreciate their remarkable swimming abilities and navigation skills," he stated.
The successful crossing likely indicates the fierce competition for territory in San Francisco. Research conducted by Schell's lab, in collaboration with Kessler, the California Academy of Sciences, UC Davis, and local community science groups, has shown that the area is densely populated with coyotes. "The intense territorial competition may have compelled this animal to explore new opportunities or niches that could provide necessary resources," Schell explained.
He suggested that by adopting a non-intrusive approach to the coyote's presence, it could help manage prey populations on the island, potentially fostering greater biodiversity. However, if relocation becomes necessary, Schell emphasized that authorities should carefully consider whether the coyote could adapt to a new home without jeopardizing its health. "Relocating it may expose the animal to dangers, such as being hit by a car, especially if it encounters unfamiliar roads," he warned.
"Coyotes have successfully adapted to a wide range of urban environments, habitats, and ecosystems across North America, which reveals their incredible adaptability, including their ability to swim to nearby islands," he added. "There is still much to learn about their flexibility, social behaviors, and interactions within urban settings."
This fascinating story invites us to reflect: Should we allow wildlife the freedom to thrive in unexpected places? What are your thoughts on the coyote's journey and its implications for urban wildlife management?
