coyote interesting facts

January 28, 2010 | In: Animal facts for kids

Unlike almost any other American animal, the coyote — known for the way it howls in late evening and early morning — can be found in every state except Hawaii.

Native Americans thought the coyote arrived with the first man and woman and would outlast human life. The Indians admired the animal’s shrewdness and ability to survive.

Coyotes are good predators and have learned to adjust to rapid changes in the environment and to new food sources. As people began to build cities and houses in its habitat, coyotes adapted and foraged less on wildlife and more on prey like cats.

Coyotes are a member of the dog family. Their scientific name is “Canis latrans“, it means “barking dog.

Coyotes typically grow up to 75–87 centimeters (30–34 inches)in length and on average, weigh from 7–21 kilograms (15–46 pounds) .

Coyotes are found in most of North America, except the cold Arctic tundra. Coyotes can adapt to most climates quite well.

They have 42 teeth in a strong jaw, which are perfect for holding and biting prey

These adaptable animals will eat almost anything. They hunt rabbits, rodents, fish, frogs, and even deer.

The coyote can run at almost 40 mph and can get over a 8′ fence.

Single coyotes travel up to 400 miles (643km), while mated pairs stay together within an area of 5 – 10 square miles (8 – 16 km).

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.

Coyotes can be difficult to distinguish from a medium-sized German shepherd dog from a distance.

Coyote usually supply live mice to their pups, for hunting practice.

As an aggressive gesture, the coyote’s tail becomes bushier and turns sideways.

Ninety per cent of coyote deaths are caused by human beings either by laying traps, poisoning or shooting them.