Stay or go - what's next for coyote that escaped to Alcatraz?

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete January 31, 2026 at 03:49 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

A coyote, nicknamed Floyd, has become the first documented coyote on Alcatraz Island since 1972, after swimming over a mile from the San Francisco Bay. Park biologists are monitoring the coyote to understand how it is surviving on the 22-acre island and to assess potential impacts on the seabird breeding colony. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) confirmed the coyote's presence and stated that it does not affect public access to the island. Floyd's future on Alcatraz depends on its behavior, as there are limited fresh water sources and concerns about its impact on the island's ecosystem. If the coyote threatens the bird population, it may be moved.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 30% National Park Service 40% Angel Island 40% Aidan Moore ×460% Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) ×470% San Francisco Bay ×270% Floyd ×580% Alcatraz Island ×8100%

Keywords

coyote 100% alcatraz island 90% san francisco bay 70% wildlife monitoring 60% golden gate national recreation area 50% seabird breeding colony 50% animal welfare 50% fresh water sources 40%