In a recent health alert issued by the environmental health division at Tompkins County Whole Health, residents of Ithaca, New York have been warned about a "potentially rabid" coyote that has been attacking multiple people and dogs in the Monkey Run Natural Area of the Cornell Botanical Gardens in Dryden.

According to the alert, the attacks have been reported over the past three days in the section of Monkey Run bounded by Hanshaw Road, Route 13, Freese Road, and Route 366. As a result, Cornell Botanical Gardens has temporarily closed off the trails in the natural area, including the popular Cayuga Trail and the Dryden Rail Trail.

The situation has prompted an investigation by the state's Department of Environmental Conservation, while Cornell University Police has been briefed about the incidents. The authorities are urging residents to report any sightings of the coyote to the Ithaca non-emergency dispatch number at 607-273-8000.

Health officials emphasized that rabid animals often display signs of illness and "atypical aggressive behavior". Consequently, residents are advised not to approach or touch any wild animals they encounter. Additionally, it is recommended that dogs should be kept on leashes while hiking in public spaces as a precautionary measure.

The health alert further explained that healthy coyotes usually avoid human contact and rarely approach humans unless their dens or young, known as kits, are threatened. This time of year, female coyotes may become more aggressive in order to protect their kin and den.

Residents have been urged by Tompkins County Whole Health to report any incidents related to animal bites or scratches, as well as any contact with saliva or other infectious material from wild animals suspected of having rabies. Additionally, all bites, scratches, or skin contact with bats, especially in the presence of children or impaired individuals, should be reported to the environmental health division.

For additional information, residents can visit Tompkins County's rabies control website. The authorities are working diligently to address the situation and ensure the safety of the community.