Resembling domesticated dogs, coyotes are carnivorous wild canines found throughout North America. Larger than foxes but smaller than wolves, they adapt well to a variety of environments, mostly due to humans encroaching on their habitat. Prevalent in grasslands, arid deserts, and even suburban environments, the coyote can be a nuisance. Additionally, the pest can be dangerous to humans and pets alike.
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Found throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico, coyotes have expanded their range in recent years to fill in the gaps left by a reduction in wolf populations. Coyotes can be found in nearly every type of climate and region of the country, including suburban and urban areas. They have even been seen in downtown areas in some of California’s largest cities. Though not necessarily pack animals like wolves, coyotes travel in family units, especially around breeding seasons. The size of these units depends on the availability of food and other natural resources needed to sustain the group.
Weighing up to 35 pounds and standing approximately 18 to 25 inches tall, coyotes are often confused with German shepherds. However, the coyote has a narrower snout and a bushier, black-tipped tail that may appear to drag the ground. Though predominantly gray to brown in color, coyotes may vary from nearly all black to red or white depending on the region in which they are found. They are identifiable by their howl, which features short, high-pitched yips and long, drawn-out yowls.
More information on what a coyote looks like.
Coyotes often invade properties and can cause considerable damage to pets, livestock, and crops. Farmers, ranchers, and homeowners alike regularly encounter coyotes invading human territories in search of food, water, and shelter, although the pests mostly prefer to avoid people.
Do coyotes harm people or property?
Domestic animals, such as sheep, goats, chickens, and calves, are easy prey for coyotes, as are common household pets, such as dogs, cats, and rabbits. Coyotes sometimes kill more than they can consume when preying on both livestock and poultry.
To exclude coyotes from properties, homeowners may need to install electric fences or other deterrents, as the pests are known to scale, dig under, and go through gaps in traditional fencing. Additionally, closing off crawl spaces beneath porches, decks, and sheds prevents coyotes from building dens and rearing their young. Guard animals may also work as a coyote deterrent.
Contacting wildlife removal professionals is the best way to eliminate aggressive coyote populations. Critter Control specialists possess the knowledge, tools, and expertise to help with coyote control by safely and humanely removing the pests.