12 interesting facts about coyotes
- Coyotes are found in most of North America, except the cold Arctic tundra. Coyotes can adapt to most climates quite well.
- Coyotes are a member of the dog family. Their scientific name is “Canis latrans“, it means “barking dog.
- They have 42 teeth in a strong jaw, which are perfect for holding and biting prey
- Coyotes typically grow up to 75–87 centimeters (30–34 inches)in length and on average, weigh from 7–21 kilograms (15–46 pounds) .
- The coyote can run at almost 40 mph and can get over a 8′ fence.
- These adaptable animals will eat almost anything. They hunt rabbits, rodents, fish, frogs, and even deer.
- Coyotes communicate in a variety of ways including a bark, a growl and a howl –and often howl in chorus. They also communicate with body language and through scent.
- Single coyotes travel up to 400 miles (643km), while mated pairs stay together within an area of 5 - 10 square miles (8 - 16 km).
- Coyote usually supply live mice to their pups, for hunting practice.
- Coyotes can be difficult to distinguish from a medium-sized German shepherd dog from a distance.
- Ninety per cent of coyote deaths are caused by human beings either by laying traps, poisoning or shooting them.
- As an aggressive gesture, the coyote’s tail becomes bushier and turns sideways.
