Rhode Island hiker fights off rabid coyote, kills animal barehanded after attack

In a remarkable act of self-defense, a hiker in Rhode Island managed to kill a rabid coyote with his bare hands after being attacked, according to officials. The incident took place in a wooded area of Johnston, where the coyote bit the hiker on the leg.

Resourcefulness in action

The hiker, displaying astonishing courage and resourcefulness, pinned down the coyote by its neck and suffocated the animal. Subsequent testing of the coyote's carcass revealed that it had rabies. Surprisingly, this same coyote was involved in another attack in Scituate on Feb. 8, reaffirming the urgency of addressing wildlife threats promptly.

Preventive measures urged

Rabies is a viral disease that can be fatal if not treated promptly after exposure. Rhode Island's Department of Environmental Management has urged individuals who may have come into contact with the coyote to seek medical attention and report the incident to relevant authorities. Additionally, pet owners are advised to report any potential exposure to local animal control officers. The state veterinarian emphasized the importance of taking immediate action and receiving rabies vaccines to prevent infection.

Importance of awareness and caution

This extraordinary display of bravery and quick thinking by the hiker serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and caution when encountering wildlife. The prompt and decisive actions taken by the hiker, along with the subsequent measures implemented, highlight the significance of responsible interaction with wildlife and the necessity of seeking medical attention in such circumstances.