Coyote

The coyote is a member of the dog family. Its scientific name is "canis latrans" which means "barking dog." The coyote has the appearance of a medium-sized dog or a small German Shepherd.

Coyotes are about one and a half to two feet tall and between 41 and 53 inches long. Weight ranges from 20 to 50 pounds. Most are grey, but some show rust or brown coloration.

More often you will hear a coyote rather than see one. Its howl can be very deceiving. Due to the way the sound carries, it seems as though it is in one place, when it is really some place else. Coyotes have two howling seasons. The first is in January and February. During this time they are trying to find a mate by howling. The second season is in September and October. During this period the female is calling to her offspring. The young then call back in unison.

This nocturnal animal is most active at night, but if not threatened by man it will hunt during the day. The coyote is omnivorous. It will eat fruits, grasses, and vegetables along with small mammals. Living snow fences provide cover for coyote dens and a place for them to find food.