Species · GBIF taxon 6164220
Southeastern Coyote
Canis latrans frustrorAlso known as Southern Coyote, Brush Wolf, Tweed Wolf
Southeastern coyotes are highly adaptable, medium-sized canids that have successfully colonized the forests, fields, and suburban neighborhoods of the American South. Often larger than their western counterparts due to historical hybridization with red wolves, they play a vital role as apex or mesopredators in fragmented ecosystems. They communicate through a complex repertoire of high-pitched yips, howls, and barks that can echo for miles on quiet nights.
AdaptableNocturnalVocal
Licensed referenceUnknown / CC-BY · cc-by
- diet
- Omnivorous (opportunistic feeder eating small mammals, fruit, insects, and carrion)
- family
- Canidae
- threats
- Vehicle collisions, hunting, rodenticide poisoning, and habitat fragmentation
- life Span
- 10 to 14 years in the wild
LC
Can carry rabies and defend themselves if cornered; observe from a safe distance and never feed them.
Capable of delivering a painful defensive bite if cornered or habituated, and can transmit rabies, sarcoptic mange, or tapeworms.
Never approach, corner, or attempt to feed a coyote; back away slowly if one approaches you too closely.- Secure attractants: Keep pet food indoors and secure trash cans to prevent habituation.
- Haze bold individuals: Make loud noises, wave your arms, or throw small objects to maintain their natural fear of humans.
- Keep pets leashed: Walk dogs on short leashes, especially during the spring pup-rearing season.