Coyote Cornered in North Dakota Garage Highlights Human-Wildlife Clash

On the night of November 15, 2025, a quiet evening in rural North Dakota took an unexpected turn for one homeowner. Steve Ost arrived home just after midnight to find a "holy commotion" in his garage - his three dogs had cornered a coyote that had sought refuge on top of a freezer.

Ost quickly recorded the scene on his phone, capturing the tense moment that showcases the growing overlap between human and wildlife spaces. As human populations expand and natural habitats shrink, more animals are being forced to venture into residential areas in search of food and shelter.

According to a recent study published in Science Advances, this trend of increased human-wildlife conflict is projected to continue. The researchers note that the primary driver is not rising global temperatures, but rather human population growth, which is causing animals to relocate their habitats.

The study also found that the variety of species in certain regions, such as African and South American forests, is expected to decrease in the coming years. Initiatives like the World Wildlife Fund's Climate Crowd are working to find solutions to address the root causes of these clashes between humans and wildlife.

While encounters like the one in North Dakota may seem alarming, wildlife agencies are educating residents on practical methods to coexist with urban wildlife, such as using deterrents and securing food sources. Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world.