Diseases are common in wildlife. Wild animals are known to carry different types of diseases and virus that can be dangerous for humans and domestic animals. As the human population and development grows, it generally has had a negative impact on the population of wild animals. However, one breed of animal that has been able to not only sustain its population but also grow with urbanization is that of coyotes. This shows just how resilient the animal is and how it adapts to survive. The coyote population continues to rise in North America which calls for some concerns. Coyotes are wild animals and carry numerous different diseases that can be harmful to humans and their pets.
While there isn’t an exact figure of how many wild coyotes are in the US, figures estimate anywhere from 300,000 – 700,000 coyotes. They aren’t just in deserts or the wild but can even be found in areas such as Chicago and New York. They do well to adapt to different locations so they can easily survive in the city, which makes them even more dangerous. It is important to stay clear and protect yourself and your animal from wild coyotes, here’s why:
Rabies
Although rabies is not very common in coyotes, there have previously been reports of it in South Texas. There haven’t been many reported cases of rabies from coyotes, but that doesn’t mean they are clear from it. Coyotes can carry rabies and therefore makes them dangerous to humans and other pets.
Canine Distemper Virus
While the virus is not dangerous for humans, the Canine Distemper Virus can be quite harmful to dogs. While the virus doesn’t normally lead to death, it can depend on the immune system of the animal. It leads to numerous different symptoms such as diarrhea, high fever, and others. There is no specific treatment for the virus, the animal is usually just treated for the symptoms they have. Coyotes can easily carry this virus and transfer it to other animals especially dogs.
Scabies
Coyotes can carry the sarcoptic manage disease which gives them a “mangy” look. It can be transferred to human and develops to what we know as scabies. While it may not be deathly, the disease can be a nuisance. Known as an infestation on the skin, you will develop rashes and constantly itch. The symptoms aren’t long-lived as the parasite that causes them are more specific to coyotes so it is short-lived on humans.
These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to diseases coyotes carry. There are numerous diseases carried by coyotes that are why it is important to stay clear from rabid coyotes. The best way to fight any disease is to take preventative measures. When it comes to coyotes, be sure to stay clear from them. That means do not feed them or go near them for any reason. As we urbanize, we cut down on coyotes natural habitat which means they have no choice but to live in urban settings.
