Coyote

A Coyote on Brown Grass

The coyote (Canis latrans) is a highly adaptable wild canine found throughout North and Central America. Known for its intelligence, resourcefulness, and distinctive howls, the coyote has successfully expanded its range despite human expansion into natural habitats.

Physical Characteristics

  • Size: Typically 20–50 pounds (9–23 kg)
  • Length: 3.3–4.5 feet (1–1.4 m) including the tail
  • Color: Fur ranges from gray-brown to yellowish-brown with a bushy black-tipped tail
  • Lifespan: 6–8 years in the wild & up to 14 years in captivity

Habitat and Distribution

Coyotes inhabit forests, grasslands, deserts, mountains, and even urban areas. Their range now extends from Alaska to Panama, and they have adapted to environments altered by humans, often thriving in suburbs and cities.

Diet

  • Main diet: Rabbits, rodents, birds, reptiles, and carrion
  • Other food sources: Fruits, berries, and vegetables
  • Urban diet: Pet food, garbage, and small domestic animals

Behavior

  • Social Structure: Usually solitary or in small family groups, but may form larger packs in areas with abundant prey.
  • Communication: Known for their howls, yips, and barks, which help maintain territory and communicate with other coyotes.
  • Activity: Mostly nocturnal but can be active during the day in quiet areas.

Role in the Ecosystem

Coyotes help control populations of rodents, rabbits, and other small mammals, making them important for ecological balance. However, in some regions, they are seen as pests due to predation on livestock or pets.

Adaptation to Human Areas

  • Use parks, golf courses, and green belts for cover and hunting.
  • Can navigate urban streets at night.
  • Have learned to avoid human contact, becoming more active during nighttime hours.

Safety Tips in Coyote Areas

  1. Secure garbage and pet food.
  2. Keep small pets indoors or supervise them outside.
  3. Do not intentionally feed coyotes.
  4. If approached, make loud noises and wave arms to scare them away.

Interesting Facts

  • Top speed: 40 mph (64 km/h).
  • They can jump fences over 6 feet tall.
  • Coyote populations actually increase when heavily hunted, due to higher pup survival rates.