Aggressive Wildlife Alert: Coyote Attacks Dog Walker in Woodcliff Lake—What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

COYOTE ATTACK SHOCKER! Dog Walker Bitten in Woodcliff Lake—URGENT Safety Warning for Bergen County Residents

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – A disturbing incident in Woodcliff Lake serves as a stark reminder of the escalating risks posed by wildlife in suburban areas. On Monday, October 20, 2025, a dog walker was attacked by a coyote in their own backyard and suffered several bite wounds. This aggressive encounter follows numerous recent sightings of both coyotes and black bears across the region.

The Woodcliff Lake Police Department is urging residents to use extreme caution and to review essential safety guidelines to prevent future conflicts.

The Dangers of Feeding Wildlife

Most coyotes and bears venture into residential areas simply looking for food. However, when these animals successfully find meals associated with human property—such as trash, pet food, or intentional feeding—they begin to lose their natural fear of humans. This habituation leads to bolder, more aggressive behavior, like the attack seen this week.

The Golden Rule: PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE BEARS OR COYOTES. Feeding wildlife breaks down their natural instincts, making them a danger to the community.

Immediate Action: When to Call the Police

While most sightings are harmless, you must alert the police immediately if you observe any wildlife that meets these criteria:

• Appears Sick: Animals acting lethargic, disoriented, or exhibiting unusual behavior.
• Acts Aggressively: Wildlife that is charging, showing teeth, or actively pursuing humans or pets.

Safety Tips from the State of New Jersey 🐻🐺

The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife provides clear guidelines for minimizing conflicts with these animals.

Coyote Safety:

• Never Feed: Secure all trash in animal-proof containers and never leave pet food outdoors.
• Hazing is Key: If a coyote approaches, haze it by making loud noises (shouting, banging pots), waving your arms, or spraying it with a hose. Coyotes that are hazed are less likely to return.
• Protect Pets: Never leave small pets unattended outside, especially at dawn, dusk, and night when coyotes are most active.

Black Bear Safety:

• Secure Food Sources: Store garbage indoors or in bear-resistant containers. Keep all grills clean and free of grease.
• Do Not Approach: Never attempt to feed or approach a bear. If a bear approaches you, remain calm, slowly back away, and do not run.
• Make Noise: If you encounter a bear in your yard, make noise to scare it away (shout, honk a car horn).

This coyote attack is a serious reminder that residents in Bergen County must be proactive about wildlife safety. Your vigilance protects not only your family and pets but also the animals themselves.

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