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