In an extraordinary wildlife event that has captivated San Francisco, a coyote has been recorded swimming to Alcatraz Island, braving the treacherous waters of the San Francisco Bay. This remarkable feat is believed to be the first time a coyote has ever reached the notorious former prison island in such a manner.
A Daring Journey Across the Bay
The coyote was spotted doggy-paddling determinedly toward Alcatraz, approximately 1.25 miles from the mainland, in full view of tourists. Video clips shared by Aidan Moore of Alcatraz City Cruises on 11 January depict the animal swimming alone, bobbing its head as it navigated the rough currents. Moore described it as "the most exciting thing to happen here in ages," having received the footage from a tourist who witnessed the event.
Expert Insights into the Coyote's Motivation
While the exact reason for the swim remains uncertain, experts speculate the coyote likely originated from San Francisco or nearby islands. Janet Kessler, a naturalist with two decades of experience documenting local coyote behaviour, suggested to CBS that the animal may have been seeking new territory due to interspecies population pressures. "This one was probably pushed around by other territorial owners and decided that he could make this trip," Kessler explained, noting that coyotes have inhabited the San Francisco area for generations.
The coyote eventually emerged onto Alcatraz's rocky shore, appearing bedraggled and shivering, with the Golden Gate Bridge visible in the background. Both Moore and Kessler remarked on its worn condition, with Kessler stating, "He can barely make it. He's depleted. He is shivering. He is cold." Despite this, the coyote disappeared before park rangers could locate it, leaving its fate unclear.
Survival Prospects on the Island
Kessler highlighted that the coyote could potentially survive on Alcatraz by utilising available resources such as banana slugs, mice, rats, birds, and rainwater puddles. "They are survivalists," she said of coyotes in general. "That's why they continue to expand." The Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which oversees Alcatraz, confirmed the authenticity of the sighting but could not elaborate on the coyote's motivations.
Alcatraz: From Prison to Tourist Attraction
Alcatraz Island, once a maximum-security federal prison shut down in 1963 after nearly 30 years of operation, is now a public museum attracting over 1 million visitors annually. Its frigid, rough waters contributed to a reputation of being virtually inescapable, housing infamous inmates like Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. This recent event adds a new, unexpected chapter to the island's storied history, blending natural wildlife resilience with human intrigue.
