Coyote Found Hiding in Cooler at Chicago Aldi Store, Safely Apprehended
Authorities Intervene in Unusual Incident
The rumor you heard was true, and there is a viral video to prove it: A coyote was apprehended at an Aldi store in Chicago on Monday morning and was pulled out of the cheese section.
No Injuries Reported
According to authorities, no injuries were reported to the coyote, police, witnesses, or Animal Care and Control officials.
How It Happened
Animal Care and Control officials and police removed the not-so-wily coyote from inside the Aldi store in Humboldt Park at 800 North Kedzie. A witness told ABC 7 Chicago that the coyote had been seen roaming the parking lot just moments before, yet somehow it ended up hiding in a cooler under a stack of fine cheeses.
Aftermath and Rehabilitation
Officials state the animal will be moved to Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation, where its condition will be checked before deciding whether it can be returned to the wild. They note that this time of year, from January through March, coyotes are particularly active due to mating season, leading to more sightings. While coyotes generally pose no threat to humans, officials advise against leaving food outside on porches or patios.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings, especially during peak coyote activity seasons. With the help of authorities and Animal Care and Control, the coyote was safely apprehended and is now receiving necessary care.
FAQs
Q: How did the coyote end up in the cooler?
A: According to a witness, the coyote was seen roaming the parking lot before being discovered hiding in the cooler.
Q: What happened to the coyote after it was removed from the store?
A: The coyote was taken to Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation for evaluation and possible rehabilitation.
Q: Are coyotes a threat to humans?
A: Generally, no. However, it is essential to take precautions, such as securing food and trash, to avoid attracting them to your property.
Q: What can I do to deter coyotes from my area?
A: Avoid leaving food outside, secure pet food and water, and do not feed them. If you encounter a coyote, remain calm and do not approach it.
Tacuma R. Roeback is the Managing Editor for the Chicago Defender. His journalism, non-fiction, and fiction have appeared in the Smithsonian Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Tennessean, South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Phoenix New Times, HipHopDX.com, Okayplayer.com, The Shadow League, SAGE: The Encyclopedia of Identity, Downstate Story, Tidal Basin Review, and Reverie: Midwest African American Literature. He is an alumnus of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, Chicago State University, and Florida A&M University.
