A Boynton Beach family is grieving the loss of their Yorkie mix named Megan, who succumbed to injuries from a coyote attack in The Club at Boynton Lakes neighborhood. The morning horror unfolded rapidly on November 7 in front of Sandra Ciminelli's home as she was walking her three dogs. "I didn't even know we had coyotes, and one came out from nowhere and started attacking them," Ciminelli recalled, as reported by CBS12.
Despite Ciminelli's efforts to protect her pets, Megan was gravely injured, and neighbors joined in to fend off the coyote. The wounded dog was later found by Ciminelli's husband, Joseph Hilton, who followed a blood trail, only to discover Megan in a critical state. Neighbors have since reported increased wildlife sightings, which some attribute to construction activities displacing animals. In a preventative measure, "We urge neighbors to be mindful and carry a whistle or repellent to protect against a possible attack," Hilton added, according to CBS12.
The incident was captured on home surveillance, showing the coyote's repetitive circling and lunging. The stress has permeated the community, with resident Kelly Geoghan telling WPBF, "It's scary, it's definitely scary. But hearing an attack like that is very alarming." Geoghan is among those taking extra precautions, now keeping his own pitbulls on short leashes.
In response, Boynton Beach police have informed residents via Facebook on how to handle coyote encounters—advice like standing one's ground, keeping pets and small children close, and making loud noises to ward off the animal. Following the attack, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded by locating and humanely euthanizing the aggressive coyote, transferring it to the Health Department for testing. A virtual presentation regarding coyote behavior and safety is scheduled for tomorrow, offering insights into the role these animals play in the ecosystem. "Coyotes have been documented in all 67 Florida counties and can be found in several habitat types and are common in rural, suburban and even urban landscapes. Because coyotes are commonly found throughout Florida, we are not asking for the public to report sightings. However, we would like to know about any wildlife, including coyotes, that are behaving aggressively and can be reached at your regional FWC office," the FWC noted in a statement quoted by WPBF.
.jpg){kind=link}