Coyote
Canis latrans
Summary 3
The coyote, Canis latrans, is a relatively small canid species, which can vary in size based on geographic location. Males weigh, on average, 18 to 44 pounds and females weigh, on average, 15 to 40 pounds. Coyotes average between 3.3 feet and 4.5 feet in length. Tail length averages about 16 inches. Their body is thin and long. The species has large ears and a thin face and muzzle (See Photo 1). The species carries its tail downwards when running or walking. The species' fur color can vary by geographical location. They tend to be light gray and red, with tints of black and white on the dorsal side and white on the ventral side (See Photo 1). The fur is made up of a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat.
The species is mostly active during early morning and around sunset, but may also be observed throughout the rest of the day. The species can be found in a diverse range of habitats, from desert scrub to grassland habitats. They are opportunistic carnivores. Their natural diet includes rabbits, rodents, and carrion, but they have also been known to eat garbage, domestic animals, reptiles, and fruit, as well as other items.
Tracks look similar to domestic dog tracks, but are more oval in shape than dog tracks. Coyote tracks have four toes, four nail prints, and a large heel impression (See Photo 2). The front track averages about 2.5 inches and the hind track averages about 2.25 inches.
Scat appear to look like twisted ropes. Small bones, fur, or vegetable matter will be visible in the scat (See Photo 3). Scat is about 0.5 inches wide, with varying lengths. They often deposit scat in easily visible places, such as the border of their territories and in the middle of trails.
Coyotes are found in all areas of Utah, including Iron County.
Sources and Credits
- (c) Yathin, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND), http://www.flickr.com/photos/36751725@N00/3192236295
- (c) samanthacutler, all rights reserved
- (c) samanthacutler, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)
