UWHARRIE NATIONAL FOREST, N.C. — Two people sustained minor injuries early Saturday in a coyote attack near Big Island Creek on the Uwharrie Trail, prompting the U.S. Forest Service to issue a safety warning for visitors.
The U.S. Forest Service and North Carolina state officials are working to locate the animal involved in the attack.
Wildlife encounters, including those with coyotes, are not uncommon in Uwharrie National Forest, according to a Forest Service press release.
Officials recommended that visitors contact the District Ranger’s office before visiting to check for safety alerts and trail condition updates. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Updates are also available on the National Forests in North Carolina website.
The Forest Service advised visitors to maintain a safe distance from all animals and to notify the District Ranger’s office or local animal control if they encounter wildlife in distress.
When camping, visitors should store food and dispose of trash at least 100 yards from sleeping areas to minimize wildlife encounters. Anyone injured in a wildlife encounter should seek medical attention immediately.
For further information on wildlife safety, visit the “Wildlife Safety in the South” page on the U.S. Forest Service website.
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