Researchers have confirmed that coyotes are swimming across deep waters to reach Angel Island in San Francisco Bay, with a population of 14 to 17 animals recorded in 2024.
Park staff recently filmed a coyote paddling along Raccoon Strait, about a quarter-mile from shore, as it returned to the island. The animal is believed to have swum a mile from Tiburon, navigating strong currents.
A breeding pair first arrived in 2017, filling a new predator niche. Initial sightings were dismissed, but genetic studies show all coyotes on the island are related to a single, now-deceased matriarch.
Ecologist Brett Furnas noted that coyotes are expanding across the Bay Area, including crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, making the island colonisation plausible.
Park staff work to protect the coyotes by educating the public on safe encounters, emphasising that coyotes are strong swimmers.
