A coyote defied expectations and treacherous conditions by swimming to Alcatraz Island – a feat never before documented. The animal, captured on video by a visitor on January 11th, battled strong currents and frigid waters to reach the infamous former prison site.
A Perilous Journey
The footage shows the coyote emerging exhausted onto Alcatraz’s rocky shore, visibly shaken after its swim. Experts are stunned: Stanley Gehrt, a wildlife ecology professor at Ohio State University, described the event as “shocking” given the notorious difficulty of navigating San Francisco Bay.
The waters surrounding Alcatraz are known for their powerful currents and cold temperatures – conditions that have historically posed deadly risks to humans attempting the same swim. The island’s isolation was a key factor in its use as a high-security prison, as escape via water was nearly impossible.
Why This Matters
This incident highlights the remarkable adaptability of coyotes. While they are known to swim, this crossing demonstrates an extraordinary level of persistence and desperation. The animal likely faced a grueling journey, swimming against the bay’s challenging conditions.
Coyotes have been observed swimming shorter distances in calmer lakes, but the Alcatraz swim is far more extreme. The coyote may have been driven by territorial expansion, food scarcity, or simply an attempt to avoid human or coyote conflict.
Urban Expansion and Coyote Behavior
The coyote’s behavior reflects a broader trend: coyotes are thriving in urban environments. Originally prairie and desert dwellers, they have expanded their range thanks to human-altered landscapes and the decline of competing predators like wolves and cougars.
Today, they inhabit cities like San Francisco, adapting to fragmented habitats such as parks and golf courses. This adaptability may have motivated the coyote to take the risk of swimming to Alcatraz.
Possible Motivations
Conservation scientist Christine Wilkinson suggests the coyote may have been seeking new territory, driven by limited green space in its original habitat near Coit Tower. Facing highway risks on land, the water may have appeared as a safer alternative.
The timing coincides with coyote mating season (January to March), adding another layer of urgency to its dispersal. While weak upon arrival, coyotes are known for their resilience. The island provides potential food sources, including rodents and seabird eggs.
A Remarkable Display of Resilience
The coyote’s swim to Alcatraz is a rare event, underscoring its ability to overcome environmental obstacles. Its journey spans more than a mile through treacherous waters, a feat that demonstrates its adaptability and determination.
“It speaks to the animal’s ability to overcome a number of different challenges and their ability to explore and take advantage of whatever opportunities they can find,” Gehrt said.
