by Kim Sharpe

Created on: December 04, 2008   Last Updated: May 07, 2010

The Coyote is a survivor. Throughout the years it has been hunted ruthlessly for its fur coat and because it was considered a pest by ranchers. Despite this it has still managed to thrive. However, the ultimate encroachment of civilization has taken its toll on the Coyotes natural habitat. Even in light of the diminishing wilderness areas the Coyote has found a way to coexist with mankind. In the hub of such huge cities as Los Angeles the clever Coyote has found its niche and managed to form colonies. These large family units thrive even in the city life that is so far removed from its natural habitat. Its ability at adapting to various situations is legendary and this feat of adapting to urban life clearly shows the surviving capabilities of these remarkable animals.

Coyotes are a close relative to the domestic dog and the wolf. They are all members of the canine group. As such they have certain characteristics that are very familiar to all canines such as living in a group or pack. Coyotes form extremely strong family relationships and tend to live in huge family units. The raising of the young is shared by both the male and female. They will both feed, shelter, and provide protection for the growing pups. After the young reach adulthood at one year of age they tend to remain with their parents for some time before venturing off to raise their own families.

When it comes to hunting the Coyote is a true prey animal. Their speed is amazing. They can run up to forty miles an hour. This makes hunting for prey an ease. They tend to hunt in well established packs that works as a unit in a planned hunt.

Their diet can be quite diverse. They will hunt the smallest of prey such as rabbits and mice but they can easily turn their sights to larger game such as Deer. These they bring down with little problem. However, this ease of killing has made them a hated foe of the rancher because they are not adverse to hunting cattle and sheep for sustenance. They will also often be seen feasting on berries, nuts, and certain grasses.

Coyotes tend to be small. They normally only weigh between twenty to fifty pounds. Their lifespan is quite long. Most will live to fifteen or sixteen years.

During the night you can hear their voracious howls. It often sounds like music if you enjoy the raw sound of nature. Coyotes tend to be nocturnal so they spend the dark hours hunting and socializing. Their most active time tends to be in the evening and early morning before the sun rises. They will yip and howl to each other in a sheer joy for life.

These amazing and diverse animals are truly intelligent and cunning. They were revered by the American Indian for their unique and endearing ways. In many of the Native American religions they believe that when God shows himself it is in the likeness of the Coyote. This shows the respect that those who have come into contact with Coyotes bestow upon them.

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