ASHEBORO — The U.S. Forest Service is warning visitors to be on alert following a recent coyote attack on a trail in the Uwharrie National Forest.
In what is being called an isolated incident, early Saturday morning two individuals received minor injuries after being attacked by a coyote on the Uwharrie Trail near Big Island Creek.
The U.S. Forest Service and N.C. state officials are working to locate the coyote involved.
According to a press release, encountering coyotes and other wildlife can be a common occurrence in the Uwharrie National Forest. Officials offered the following tips:
- Know before you go—contact the District Ranger’s office (open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) or visit the National Forests in North Carolina’s webpage for the latest alerts and safety information.
- Never approach any wildlife, when in the forest. If an animal appears to be in distress, contact the District Ranger’s office or county animal control.
- When camping, make sure to secure all food and trash to avoid attracting wildlife. Prepare food at least 100 yards away from sleeping areas.
- If you are injured during an unintentional encounter with wildlife, seek immediate medical attention.
For more information visit the Wildlife Safety in the South page on the U.S. Forest Service’s website.