Floyd the Coyote: A New Resident of Alcatraz Island

Mon Feb 02 2026 17:51:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Floyd, a coyote who swam over a mile to Alcatraz Island, is being monitored by scientists as he adapts to life on the site of the former prison. His presence raises questions about the island's ecosystem and potential risks to bird populations.

After an astonishing swim across San Francisco Bay, Floyd the coyote now calls Alcatraz Island home. Park biologists are monitoring him to assess his impact on the island's ecosystem, especially its seabird population. Scientists express concerns about his long-term survival due to the island's lack of fresh water. Local wildlife experts suggest Floyd's journey may stem from population pressures in the city, highlighting the adaptability and resilience of urban wildlife.

A lone coyote named Floyd has captured the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike after swimming over a mile across the San Francisco Bay to Alcatraz Island. This island, infamous for its former prison, is now under close scrutiny as Floyd settles into his new environment.

Floyd appears to be thriving on Alcatraz, relying largely on birds for food. However, Aidan Moore, a local tour guide who documented Floyd's remarkable journey, stated that his future on the island depends on his behavior, particularly regarding interactions with the island's seabird populations.

Without any fresh water sources available, Floyd's survival may hinge on human intervention. He has been observed behaving cautiously, but his health seems to be improving. Video footage captured by tourists shows him adapting to the rocky terrain of Alcatraz.

Biologists from Golden Gate National Recreation Area are monitoring Floyd to better understand how he will impact the seabird colonies that breed on the island from February through September.

Floyd is the first documented coyote on Alcatraz since it became a national park in 1972. His presence raises questions about the balance between wildlife adaptability and conservation efforts. Moore and fellow ecologists are debating whether its continued presence on the island poses a risk to the local bird populations and whether he can remain without causing harm.

While coyotes are common in the Bay Area, making the swim to Alcatraz is a first. Experts speculate that Floyd may have been driven to seek new territory due to population pressures in urban settings. Observations of his behavior will be crucial in determining the long-term viability of this lone coyote on 'The Rock.'

As interest in Floyd grows, park officials are keen on ensuring that both the coyote and visiting tourists stay safe. Visitors are still welcome to Alcatraz, as Floyd's presence does not impact public access to the island.

The story of Floyd serves as a reminder of the resilience of wildlife amidst shifting landscapes, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in wildlife conservation as species seek new habitats.