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You are here: » Animals » Mammals » Coyote

Coyote: here’s the scoop

threats

There are no current major threats to coyote populations throughout their range. In rural areas, cause of death is hunting or trapping, while in urban areas it is usually automobiles. In the absence of wolves and other large predators, coyote populations have increased. Coyotes in suburban areas are adept at exploiting human-made food resources and will readily consume dog food or other human-related items.

Committed to Conservation

Buttonwood Park Zoo has a long history of rescuing and rehabilitating native species from perilous situations. Our resident coyote, Molly, came to us in 2015 after her mother was unfortunately hit by a car in Texas. A wildlife rehabilitator performed an emergency Cesarean on the side of the road after realizing the female was pregnant. Due to Molly’s unique upbringing, her keepers are able to walk her around the Zoo. Her favorite spot to explore is Buttonwood Brook!

Species

Coyote

Scientific name

Canis latrans

Habitat

Coyotes utilize almost all available habitats including prairie, forest, desert, mountain and tropical ecosystems.

Diet

Carnivorous. Coyotes are opportunistic, generalist predators that eat a variety of food items, typically consuming items in relation to changes in availability. Coyotes can eat fruit, insects, rodents, rabbits, deer and livestock.

life expectancy

12 – 15 years

Did you know?

Coyotes are very good swimmers.

Range

Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, United States

Conservation status

Least Concern

Widespread and abundant