Coyote
The coyote (*Canis latrans*) is a North American canid in the dog family, Canidae.
The coyote (Canis latrans) is a highly adaptable wild canid native to North America. It is smaller than the gray wolf and known for its varied diet and distinctive calls.
What it is
Coyotes are medium-sized canids with a narrow muzzle, erect ears, and a bushy tail. They typically weigh 20–50 pounds and measure about 3–4 feet long, including the tail. Their colour varies from grayish-brown to yellowish-brown. The species name Canis latrans means 'barking dog'.
Where it lives
Originally found in open prairies, coyotes now occupy a wide range of environments across North and Central America. In Canada, they are found in most parts of the country, from rural areas to urban edges. Their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in human-modified landscapes.
Why it matters
Coyotes are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on small mammals, fruit, insects, carrion, and human waste. They play an important role in ecosystems as both predators and scavengers. While they sometimes conflict with livestock or pets, their resilience has made them one of the most successful wild canids in North America. The species is assessed as Least Concern.
In short
- Coyotes are wild canids native to North America, smaller than wolves.
- They are opportunistic omnivores with a highly varied diet.
- Their range has expanded across Canada and into urban areas.
- The species is not endangered and is considered Least Concern.
Coyotes occur in most parts of Canada and are a familiar wild mammal in both natural and human-modified landscapes.[4][6]
Quick questions
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Sources
- Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/animals/vertebrate-zoology/coyoteSupports: Etymology of the name and common alternate names.
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CoyoteSupports: Scientific name, classification, native range, and common alternate names.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/coyote-mammalSupports: Species description, family, size comparison with wolves, and range.
- NHPBS NatureWorks — https://natureworks.nhpbs.org/animals/coyote/Supports: Distribution in the United States, Mexico, Central America, and most of Canada.
- The Canadian Encyclopedia — https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/coyoteSupports: Canadian range, habitat use, diet, and adaptation to human-modified environments.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/coyoteSupports: Diet, size, lifespan, and conservation status.
- National Wildlife Foundation — https://nwlfd.org/species/coyoteSupports: Conservation status and general species overview.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/coyote-mammalSupports: Range, size, diet, and coydog note.