Coyote attacks local man

NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Police officers were forced to shoot and kill a coyote that attacked a man in Niagara County Wednesday night.

For the man who was close enough when the coyote turned ugly, getting away unharmed was quite the feat. Officials said the 31 year-old man was walking along Zimmerman road late Wednesday night when the coyote circled him and then nipped at his legs.

"They're usually not aggressive. They usually try to stay away from humans," said Capt. John Mangus from North Tonawanda Fire Department.

Despite what's typical of these animals, the health department reports this is the 4th time a coyote has tried to attack a human in the last three weeks in North Tonawanda.

Nicole Azim is a resident there. She said, "I never thought we'd have a coyote living across the street from my house."

Some neighbors who heard police fire the shot that killed the coyote said they feel safer. "It's not out running around anymore so I feel like I can go outside without it running out," said Courtney Connors.

Fire Captain Mangus said coyotes aren't uncommon in the area. What you can do to protect yourself is simple. "Stay away from it! Right now what we've experienced is these are aggressive now. They're not just running away," said Magnus. "Be aware that they are out there. You know going out into your backyard. Turn lights on first. Hopefully that will scare them off."

Health officials said they will test the coyote for rabies.

Mark Alessandrea from North Tonawanda said, "Unfortunately it didn't have rabies. That's kind of sad. I like the wildlife here. That's why I moved here."

>> Click here for Coyote Safety Tips

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The Niagara County Department of Health in cooperation with the Niagara County Veterinary Society will hold a Rabies Immunization Clinic Saturday, May 16 between 2 and 4 pm. The clinic will take place at Cornell Cooperative Extension ("County Fairgrounds"), 4487 Lake Avenue, Town of Lockport. Call 433-8839 for more information.