3 coyotes euthanized after bite reports at Henderson’s Pittman Wash

LAS VEGAS ( KLAS ) — Three coyotes have been euthanized in a section of Pittman Wash of Henderson after a July 12 warning that two women had reported being bitten, according to the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW).

Reported attacks on July 7 and July 12 prompted NDOW to post temporary warning signs in the area, and the agency is now coordinating with Henderson officials to post permanent signs. The area is along Pittman Wash near Green Valley Parkway.

“Surprisingly, there was nothing present in the area to indicate that feeding activity contributed to this incident, making the bites even more unusual,” NDOW spokesman Doug Nielsen told 8 News Now on Wednesday.

He said one of the coyotes had been sent for rabies testing, but wardens were unable to recover the other two.

Both women reported puncture wounds on their lower leg, and both went to the hospital for treatment.

NDOW urged residents to take the following steps if they encounter a coyote:

• Keep small children and pets close
• Don’t run or turn away
• Be large and loud
• Don’t corner the animal
• Throw things at it
• Use a commercial repellent
• Never feed wildlife

Pittman Wash is a natural waterway that is now part of the Las Vegas Valley flood control network. There’s a popular hiking trail at the wash.

NDOW worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture APHIS Wildlife Services in euthanizing the coyotes.

Anyone encountering coyotes exhibiting aggressive behavior while visiting the area is encouraged to notify the department by calling 800-992-3030 or 775-688-1331.

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