A lone coyote, known as Floyd, has drawn attention after successfully swimming over a mile across the San Francisco Bay to land on Alcatraz Island. The animal is currently being observed by scientists who are monitoring its impact on the local avian population. Floyd appears to be adapting well and is reportedly thriving on the island by preying on birds.
However, the question of whether Floyd can remain on Alcatraz is dependent on his behavior towards the seabird population and the presence of fresh water sources on the island. Aidan Moore, a local tour guide, commented that Floyd's survival largely hinges on human intervention due to the lack of natural water sources.
Footage captured by a tourist showcases Floyd’s initial arrival and attempts to make the island his home. After appearing gaunt and shivering upon his arrival, Floyd's condition has since improved, allowing him to establish a presence on the island. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area confirmed Floyd's sighting, noting that he represents the first documented coyote on the island since it became a national park in 1972.
The presence of Floyd has raised concerns about possible disturbances to seabird nesting colonies, as Alcatraz is a recognized sanctuary for seabirds, especially during their sensitive nesting period from February to September. Park staff and biologists are actively working to understand how Floyd is surviving and managing to locate enough food to sustain himself.
While coyotes are not uncommon in the San Francisco Bay area, Floyd's decision to cross to Alcatraz raises questions about potential overcrowding in Sierra ecosystems, as suggested by local ecologists. They believe that increased sightings of coyotes in urban settings might indicate a search for new territories due to population pressures.
As wildlife experts closely monitor Floyd, they remain cautious about the challenges he faces on Alcatraz, including finding sufficient food and maintaining distance from the influx of tourists to the island. Ultimately, Floyd's future will depend on his ability to adapt and survive in this unique environment.
However, the question of whether Floyd can remain on Alcatraz is dependent on his behavior towards the seabird population and the presence of fresh water sources on the island. Aidan Moore, a local tour guide, commented that Floyd's survival largely hinges on human intervention due to the lack of natural water sources.
Footage captured by a tourist showcases Floyd’s initial arrival and attempts to make the island his home. After appearing gaunt and shivering upon his arrival, Floyd's condition has since improved, allowing him to establish a presence on the island. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area confirmed Floyd's sighting, noting that he represents the first documented coyote on the island since it became a national park in 1972.
The presence of Floyd has raised concerns about possible disturbances to seabird nesting colonies, as Alcatraz is a recognized sanctuary for seabirds, especially during their sensitive nesting period from February to September. Park staff and biologists are actively working to understand how Floyd is surviving and managing to locate enough food to sustain himself.
While coyotes are not uncommon in the San Francisco Bay area, Floyd's decision to cross to Alcatraz raises questions about potential overcrowding in Sierra ecosystems, as suggested by local ecologists. They believe that increased sightings of coyotes in urban settings might indicate a search for new territories due to population pressures.
As wildlife experts closely monitor Floyd, they remain cautious about the challenges he faces on Alcatraz, including finding sufficient food and maintaining distance from the influx of tourists to the island. Ultimately, Floyd's future will depend on his ability to adapt and survive in this unique environment.
