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Coyote Bite Leads to Temporary Closures in Cape Breton Highlands National Park
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Coyote Bite Triggers Partial Park Closures
A visitor was bitten by a coyote in the MacIntosh Brook area of Cape Breton Highlands National Park on Thursday evening. Parks Canada responded by temporarily closing the MacIntosh Brook trail, the nearby Lone Shieling trail, and adjacent roadside pull-offs while staff assess the situation. The agency is monitoring the affected zone and will issue updates as more information becomes available. No details have been released about the condition of the person who was bitten.
Background on Coyote Encounters in the Park
Coyote sightings and occasional attacks have been reported in the park before, though such incidents are rarely fatal. Earlier in September, a separate human-coyote encounter occurred on the Old Town Trail at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, also administered by Parks Canada. These events have prompted the agency to issue broader warnings about “aggressive behaviour” among coyotes in the region.
Parks Canada Response and Visitor Guidance
Parks Canada officials have reiterated existing regulations that prohibit feeding, enticing, or disturbing wildlife; violations can result in fines of up to $25,000. The agency’s public notice advises anyone who encounters a coyote to appear large, make noise, and back away slowly. Staff are conducting on-site assessments and maintaining the closures until the area is deemed safe for public use.
Impact and Ongoing Monitoring
The temporary closures affect hikers and drivers who use the MacIntosh Brook and Lone Shieling routes, as well as nearby parking areas. Parks Canada continues to monitor wildlife activity and will lift the restrictions once the risk has been mitigated. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to wildlife safety guidelines while visiting Canada’s national parks.