During a routine shopping trip, customers at an Aldi store in Humboldt Park, Chicago, were startled when they overheard someone mention that a furry animal was hiding in the refrigerated section. Speculations ran wild about what it could be; many guessed it might be a mouse or perhaps a pet cat or dog brought in by a customer. However, the reality was much more surprising.
On January 13, 2025, at around 8 AM, chaos erupted at the Aldi located at 800 North Kedzie Avenue when shoppers discovered a large, furry creature hiding behind the shelves in the cold storage area. The incident prompted a call to the police for assistance. By 9:45 AM, officers arrived with brooms and carts to coax the animal out of its hiding spot. Witnesses held their breath as they awaited the reveal, with some speculating it might be a raccoon or an opossum. What emerged was far from ordinary: a coyote.
The Aldi’s on Kedzie in Humboldt Park
I was prepared to see him pull out a opossum or a raccoon. Did NOT expect that pic.twitter.com/4CbaWkjhwy
— Eddie (@EddieBarstool) January 13, 2025
The video of the rescue went viral as it depicted officers pulling the coyote out by its tail. The startled animal quickly darted back into the shelves after being freed, causing onlookers to gasp and flee in surprise. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the shoppers or the coyote during this unusual encounter.
According to reports from CBS News, the coyote was eventually captured and taken to Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation for assessment. The organization confirmed that while the coyote was frightened, it was unharmed and healthy. They speculated that the animal had entered the grocery store through an open door while trying to escape human activity outside.
This incident highlights an increase in coyote sightings during winter months, particularly from January to March, which coincides with their mating season. Experts remind the public that while coyotes generally avoid human interaction, they may venture closer to urban areas during this time.
After being evaluated at the rehabilitation center, plans were made to release the coyote back into its natural habitat once it stabilized from the ordeal. Many social media users expressed sympathy for the animal after seeing footage of its rescue, particularly noting how officers had pulled on its tail.
"The coyote is unharmed, but he is scared," Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation stated on social media.
This event serves as a reminder of wildlife's presence even within urban environments and emphasizes the importance of securing food sources to minimize encounters between humans and wildlife.
