Today I saw a coyote, big as a German Shepherd, out on the trail. It was beautiful and elegant, head held high. I was not afraid. He-she was not afraid. We were about fifteen feet apart, and I was on the higher trail and he/she on the lower. We looked into each other's eyes and then I averted mine. He/she looked well-fed and I think smaller prey is preferred but it was an interesting encounter, as I realized my experience of coyotes is either in the zoo or skulking across the road. This coyote was in its element and so beautiful and proud.
Walking along, I did stay alert, listened to the wind and birds, and thought of those I know who carry pepper spray. If I had been carrying it and if the coyote decided to attack, would I have been able to spray it? For now, I'll stay a little more alert and I usually am. I've seen a mountain lion three times, bobcats many times, a skunk, much too close, and now this wonderful coyote. I am entranced.
What a gift for the day!