Lawyer in Motion: My Road to Marathon Fitness

Yesterday’s run did not go as planned. I set out ready to enjoy the crisp fall air and the crunch of leaves underfoot. With less than one mile left, I spotted a coyote up ahead on the side of the trail in a meadow. Luckily, it was not aggressive. Rather than risk running past it, I cut my route short and headed back to my car.

Encounters like this remind us that running outdoors means sharing space with wildlife. Coyotes are increasingly common in suburban and urban areas. While they are generally shy, I realized I did not feel fully prepared for this wildlife encounter. I turned to the National Park Service for tips on how to respond when you cross paths with one.

Safety Tips for Runners Around Coyotes

• Do not run past them. Just like I did today, it is better to reroute or cut your run short than to risk startling a coyote.
• Stay calm and do not run away. Running can trigger a chase instinct. Instead, stop, stand tall, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly.
• If a coyote approaches you – make yourself bigger and make noise. Raise your arms, wave, or use your jacket to appear larger and more intimidating. You can clap, shout, or use a whistle to encourage the coyote to move along.
• Consider running with a buddy or group. Coyotes are less likely to approach multiple people.
• Report aggressive behavior. If a coyote seems unusually bold, notify local animal control so they can monitor the area.

While my run ended earlier than I had hoped, it was a good reminder that safety comes first. Coyotes are part of the natural landscape. Respecting their space is key. Next time, I’ll be more prepared. Running is about resilience and sometimes that means adapting to the unexpected.

Note: This post reflects my personal experience and general safety tips for runners. I am not a wildlife expert and the information shared here should not be taken as professional advice. For official guidance on coyote encounters, please consult local wildlife authorities or resources such as the U.S. National Park Service.

Photo credit: Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND.