TROY, N.C. (WGHP) – North Carolina Forest Service rangers are asking people to use extra caution after reports of coyote attacks in the Uwharrie National Forest.
Rangers say the coyote attack happened early Saturday morning on Uwharrie Trail near Big Island Creek.
Two people suffered minor injuries as a result of the attack. Rangers and state officials are working to determine if a coyote is involved.
Rangers say encounters with coyotes and other wildlife are common when visiting the forest, and the outcome of such encounters can be unpredictable.
They provided a list of next steps to protect both your own personal safety and the safety of wildlife.
- Please check before departure. Contact your district ranger's office (open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or visit the North Carolina National Forest webpage for the latest warnings and safety information.
- Never approach wild animals when in the forest. If an animal appears to be in distress, contact your district ranger office or county animal control office.
- When camping, be sure to secure all food and trash to avoid attracting wildlife. Prepare food at least 100 meters from your sleeping area.
- If you are injured in an unintentional encounter with a wild animal, seek medical attention immediately.
For more information about wildlife safety, visit the Safety Ethics section of the Forest Service website.
