Overview
This lecture covers the coyote (Canis latrans), its taxonomy, physical characteristics, behavior, distribution, ecology, interactions with other species, and cultural significance.
Taxonomy and Physical Description
- The coyote (Canis latrans) is a North American canine, smaller than the gray wolf.
- It has 19 recognized subspecies with some geographic variation in size and color.
- Typical adult male weighs 8–20 kg; female 7–18 kg, with northern subspecies larger than southern ones.
- Fur is mainly light gray and red/fulvous, with some black and white; elevation affects color shading.
- Distinguishing traits: longer ears, larger braincase, thinner muzzle than the wolf, and a tail carried downward.
- Tracks are more elongated and less rounded than those of domestic dogs.
Behavior and Ecology
- Coyotes are highly adaptable and thrive in diverse environments, including urban areas.
- They are primarily carnivorous, eating deer, rabbits, rodents, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, but will eat fruits and vegetables.
- Social structure is flexible; they may live in pairs, family groups, or loose packs.
- Monogamous mating system; gestation period is 63 days, average litter size is six pups.
- Territorial, especially during denning season, and mark with scent.
- Use both dens and open ground for shelter when raising young.
Evolution and Genetics
- Coyotes evolved from Eucyon davisi through Canis lepophagus to modern Canis latrans.
- Fossils date to about 0.74–0.85 million years ago.
- Genetic studies show hybridization with wolves and dogs; eastern coyotes are notable hybrids.
- Coyote and wolf populations often contain some DNA from each other.
- Melanistic (black) coyotes inherit their color from a mutation originating in domestic dogs.
Range and Expansion
- Originally confined to western North America, coyotes have expanded across the continent and into Central America.
- Their range has grown, especially after wolf extermination, land changes, and adaptation to human-altered environments.
- Coyotes have been observed south of Panama and are expected to expand further.
Enemies, Competitors, and Interactions
- Major natural enemies are humans, wolves, and cougars.
- Coyotes face competition and occasional predation from wolves, cougars, bears, lynx, eagles, and bobcats.
- Sometimes form mutualistic hunting relationships with American badgers.
- Compete and occasionally hybridize with domestic dogs and wolves.
Communication and Social Behaviors
- The coyote is the most vocal wild North American mammal, with at least 11 distinct vocalizations.
- Vocalizations serve alarm, greeting, and contact functions, including iconic howls and yip howls.
- Play behaviors and dominance fights are common in pups.
Diseases and Parasites
- Coyotes host many viruses (rabies, distemper), bacteria, and parasites, including mange, ticks, fleas, tapeworms, hookworms, and roundworms.
- Disease load is likely due to their adaptability and diet diversity.
Human Interactions and Cultural Significance
- Coyote is a major figure in Native American myth (often a trickster).
- In Anglo-American culture, seen as cunning and untrustworthy.
- Attacks on humans are rare but increasing, mostly in urban areas.
- Major predator of livestock and pets in some regions; predator control, livestock guardian dogs, and other methods are used to limit losses.
- Coyote fur used in fashion; sometimes tamed, but not reliably domesticated.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Canis latrans — Scientific name for the coyote.
- Hybridization — The interbreeding of coyotes with wolves or domestic dogs.
- Monogamy — Reproductive system where coyotes form long-term pairs.
- Estrus — The period when the female coyote is fertile.
- Altricial — Born in an undeveloped state, requiring care (describes coyote pups).
- Sarcoptic mange — Skin disease caused by mites, common in coyotes.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences between coyote and wolf physical/behavioral traits.
- Study coyote vocalizations and social structures for exam prep.
- Compare coyote adaptations and expansion to those of other North American carnivores.