Coyote Spotted Napping on Frozen Ohio River

Police warn boaters and ice fishers to keep an eye on small pets after spotting the unusual sight.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Bellevue Police Department in Kentucky spotted a coyote napping on the frozen Ohio River on Sunday, sharing photos of the unusual sight on social media. The coyote was seen resting near the riverbank, with the Cincinnati skyline visible in the background, before later appearing to walk back toward land.

Why it matters

Coyotes are typically not seen in such urban areas or on frozen bodies of water, making this a rare and noteworthy sighting. The police department warned local residents to be cautious of small pets near the river, as coyotes can pose a threat.

The details

In the Facebook post, the Bellevue Police Department advised "Warning for any boaters or ice fishers out there. Sgt. Bonar spotted a coyote napping on the ice. If you have small pets on your boat, or in your ice fishing shack; be sure to keep an eye on them." The coyote was spotted resting near the riverbank on the Kentucky side of the Ohio River, with the Cincinnati skyline visible in the background. In one of the photos, the coyote appeared to be walking back toward land.

  • The coyote was spotted napping on the ice on Sunday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Bellevue Police Department

The police department in Bellevue, Kentucky that spotted the coyote napping on the frozen Ohio River and shared the photos on social media.

Sgt. Bonar

The Bellevue police officer who spotted the coyote napping on the ice and alerted the department.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This unusual sighting of a coyote napping on the frozen Ohio River highlights the adaptability of these animals and the need for residents near urban waterways to be vigilant about their small pets, especially in the winter months when coyotes may venture into unfamiliar territory in search of food.