Native Americans, the Aztecs, named this intelligent member of the dog family ‘Coyotl’. They once lived primarily in open prairies and deserts, but now they roam the continent’s forests and mountains. Coyotes are also referred to as prairie or bush wolf, however they are much smaller and lighter than wolves weighing around 10-23 kg yet vary in colour and size depending on where they live. They exist amongst cougars, lynx, bobcat, caribou, wolves and bears.

Humans and coyotes have always had a conflicting past due to the coyote’s intelligence, cunning and predatory nature, especially when there are large numbers of farm animals. They are primarily nocturnal and incredibly territorial. Like dingoes, they may seek to eliminate overpopulated prey in their territory, which is instinctual and part of their ecological purpose, yet farmers don’t see it that way. Speed has been their greatest attribute; running at speeds of up to 46 km, which has helped to bring them back from near extinction. During the winter months, they manage to live off berries and fruits. Nightly serenades of yaps and howls echo for miles. Their territory ranges from 10-40 km, and they generally avoid humans, but they habituate to human presence in parks and cities and are found regularly in urban settings. Coyotes have been known to attack domestic pets left outside at night. occasionally larger animals, such as wolves or cougars (pumas) prey on coyotes.

Foxes, racoons and coyotes are known as mesopredators, whereas larger apex or top predators like the wolf and pumas keep these smaller populations of animals from exploding, and allow for biodiversity. It is mainly when humans interfere with these populations that problems arise.

The Trump administration reversed many bans and restrictions regarding guns, hunting and the importing of animal body parts or trophies... bans originally put into place by ex-President Obama. Trump eased gun restrictions and reversed a ban on hunting methods, like baiting bears with doughnuts, spotlights to blind then shoot hibernating black bear mothers and their cubs while in their dens, and shooting swimming caribou from motorboats. Seven US states have banned coyote killing contests. The rules are simple – shoot as many as possible in a set period of time to win prizes, awards or money. A shocking sight; ute-loads of dead and dying coyotes, a brutal example of cruelty to animals.

Pam Brandis,
Dip. Canine Prac.