Video: Coyote stalks Pasadena toddler. Hear the mother's reaction - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Cierra Morgan

February 24, 2026

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A surveillance video from a Pasadena home has captured a startling encounter between a large coyote and a 3-year-old boy. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when Salvo Bessemer was walking toward the family car and suddenly sprinted back screaming for his mother. His mother, Aida Svelto, initially didn’t realize the danger until her partner shared the doorbell video showing the coyote following Sal through their front gate. Svelto grabbed her son and screamed as the coyote turned around and left. This incident occurred during coyote mating season, which typically runs from January through March and peaks in February. During this time, coyotes are more active and bold, constantly searching for mates and food sources. This behavior can lead to increased interactions with humans, particularly in suburban areas where coyotes have become accustomed to relying on trash and other human-related food sources. Pasadena residents are no strangers to coyote sightings, as the animals frequently roam the streets and neighborhoods, especially after being displaced by events like the Eaton fire. Suburban sprawl has brought humans and coyotes into closer contact in recent decades, with Los Angeles area having some of the highest coyote population densities in the nation. While coyotes are generally shy and wary of people, they can become conditioned to relying on trash and other human-related food sources, which increases the risk of encounters. This incident highlights the importance of being cautious and prepared when living in areas where coyotes are present, especially during mating season. Svelto shared her experience of standing her ground and telling the coyote to leave, which ultimately scared it off. She also suggested carrying a whistle as an additional safety measure during this heightened period of coyote activity. This incident serves as a reminder for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect children and pets, especially in areas where coyotes are known to roam.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/24/2026