Names given to coyotes by Native Americans
Song Dog
coyote dances and sings when happy
God's Dog
creator's messenger on earth, teaches people how to live
will walk the earth after all other animals have vanished
Trickster
tricks other animals into giving up their food
Distribution
• once restricted to western plains,
now found throughout North America
• translocation by houndsmen groups
• natural range expansion due to:
- non-specific food and habitat requirements
- decreased competition from predators
(eradication of wolves and other large predators)
- changing landscapes – deforestation
Biology
• appearance of small shepherd-like dog
• 23 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder
• slim muzzle, erect ears, bushy tail with black tip
• typically weighs 30 to 45 pounds
• life expectancy is 7 to 14 years
• reproduction
- mate in Winter (Feb-Mar)
- pups in Spring (Apr-May)
Communication
• most vocal of all carnivores
- at least 13 different calls
• biologists theorize howling establishes territorial rights
• one of the most complex communication systems
of any mammal in North America
Diet
opportunistic
feeder
• small mammals
• birds
• insects
• fruits
• vegetables
• carrion
• pet food
• garbage
Tracks
• narrow
• front paw about 2 inches wide
• hind paw slightly smaller
Scat
• typically contains hair of prey
Benefits
• pest control for mesopredators,
rodents, insects, etc.
• scavenger
Downside
• prey upon fawns, small farm animals, and pets
• compete with other predators
Advice
• NEVER feed coyotes or any wild animal
• prevent access to pet food and garbage
• keep cats indoors and watch small dogs
• wave arms, shout, bang on something, and act aggressively to frighten coyotes away
• if necessary, throw an object in the direction of the coyote, but do not try to hit it
• if coyote approaches, lift small pets and children off the ground – be prepared to defend yourself
