What do we know about coyotes?

Coyotes belong to the canine family and are smaller than wolves. They are also called prairie wolves at times. They are native to North America.

A keen sense of smell and sharp vision aid coyotes in hunting. They prey on deer, rabbits, hares, rodents, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. The diet of coyotes is not limited to animal meat alone. They eat fruits and vegetables too. They sometimes kill lambs, calves, or other livestock, as well as pets. So, ranchers and farmers regard them as destructive pests.

The hunting habits of coyotes are not as organized as that of wolves. They hunt in groups and rely more on the number of members rather than their strength. They require more effort and cooperation to harass and pull down a large prey. Humans pose a great threat to coyote populations.

Picture Credit : Google