Coyotes Chasing and Even Bitting Skiers in Idaho Has Fish and Game Perplexed

We have some dangerous and deadly animals in Idaho that are worth being frightened of. Here are the deadliest creatures big and little in the gem state...

Notice that Coyotes are nowhere on that list? Usually, coyotes are not anything to worry about for humans. Although for pets they can be quite dangerous. There have been a few reports over the last few years of attacks on people's dogs in the Boise foothills. For them to chase and attack humans, something way bigger than them, is very strange behavior and is causing concern.

USA today reports, "Coyotes in Sandpoint, Idaho, have been exhibiting "highly unusual behavior," which includes chasing skiers at Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort. Most encounters at Schweitzer occurred in early January, including an incident in which a skier was bitten. But the Idaho Department of Fish and Game said patrons should be on guard and contact the agency if they spot coyotes on the slopes."

One local commented on the Idaho Fish and Game Panhandle Region Facebook page, "Multiple reports from Schweitzer ski resort about coyote(s) actively pursuing and biting skiers. One woman was chased into a tree well and had to fight the coyote off, finally being rescued by another skier who beat the coyote with her ski poles."

Idaho Fish and Game seems a bit perplexed by the whole situation and say that the coyotes are also hanging out closer to the main parts of town and businesses even during the day, not usual behavior.