Coyote letter triggered memories for reader

Independent Newsmedia/Charlene Bisson

Learn More

Coyotes are common throughout Arizona, even in urban environments. For more information on what attracts them to an area, what to do if you encounter them and how to protect yourself and your pets, visit Arizona Game & Fish’s website at azgfd.com/wildlife-conservation/living-with-wildlife/living-with-coyotes.

If you’re attacked by a coyote, call 911 immediately, seek medical attention and report the incident to Game & Fish.

OPINION — Reading Sue Wilson’s coyote letter reminded me of my coyote experience when I moved to Arizona nearly 15 years ago.

To avoid the summer heat, I tried walking late at night or at daybreak. I got a bad feeling, turned and saw a coyote or dog as big as a Great Dane following me. I decided to join a health club.

For years, the Posse offered dog-walking safety classes. The Sun Cities HOAs used to invite Arizona Game and Fish Department speakers to discuss living with wild animals. What happened?

There was I time I could have my morning coffee, say hi to dog-walkers, and watch for coyotes, javelinas, rabbits, quail, stray cats or dogs and feel like I was back in the America I knew 70 years ago. I think developers and climate change killed most of them.

Many dog walkers have walking sticks, flashlights, whistles, anything to scare off the coyotes. I miss my America.

Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.