Mammals of the Table Rocks

Coyote

Canis latrans USFWS

Canis latrans USFWS

My name means "barking dog." I am the best runner of the dogs. I can run up to 40 mph for short distances, and can make 14-foot leaps. I run with my tail down unlike the domestic dog (tail up) or wolf (tail straight).

I am an opportunist, eating rabbits, mice, ground squirrels, pocket gophers, and other small mammals, as well as birds, frogs, toads, snakes, insects, and many kinds of fruit. I usually work alone, when I hunt, but sometimes a few of us like to team up by running in relays to tire prey or wait in ambush while others chase.

You may hear me yelp, bark or howl at dusk, dawn, or during the night. This noise keeps my band alert to the locations of the all members and helps to reunite us when separated. I can live to be six to eight years old.

Humans are my major enemy. We are often unjustly accused of killing lambs, pigs, and poultry.

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