Coyote (Canis latrans)

Mammal Canid Highly adaptable

Overview

The coyote (Canis latrans) is a medium-sized wild canid native to North America and a close relative of wolves, jackals, and domestic dogs. Intelligent, versatile, and resourceful, it has not only persisted but expanded its range as human landscapes have spread, becoming a familiar presence even in cities.

Coyotes occupy nearly every habitat on the continent and play an important ecological role as predators of rodents and other small animals.

Conservation note: the coyote is widespread and abundant and is not of conservation concern; in many areas it is instead a focus of coexistence and management discussions. Verify current status and local guidance through authoritative sources.

Classification

The coyote belongs to Canidae, the dog family, in the same genus (Canis) as wolves and domestic dogs, with which it can sometimes interbreed.

Habitat & Range

Coyotes occur from Central America through the United States and Canada, across deserts, grasslands, mountains, forests, and farmland, as well as suburban and urban areas. Their range has expanded over the past century, helped by their adaptability and changes to the landscape.

Diet & Feeding

Coyotes are opportunistic omnivores. Small mammals such as rodents and rabbits are dietary staples, supplemented by birds, insects, reptiles, fruit, and carrion. Diet shifts with what is locally and seasonally available, which underpins their success across so many habitats.

Behavior & Social Life

Coyotes are flexible socially: they may live alone, in pairs, or in small family groups, depending on food and conditions. They are well known for their vocalisations — yips, barks, and howls — used to communicate within and between groups. They are mainly active around dusk, dawn, and at night, especially near people.

Appearance & Recognition

Coyotes have a slender build, a narrow, pointed muzzle, large erect ears, and a bushy, black-tipped tail usually carried low when running — a useful way to distinguish them from domestic dogs and wolves. Coat colour is typically grey to tan with paler underparts, varying by region.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Coyotes interact with people across much of North America, including in cities, which raises questions of coexistence with pets and livestock. Standard guidance emphasises not feeding them and securing attractants. For current status and local recommendations, rely on authoritative sources.

More photos of the coyote