Coyote Sign

Are coyotes using your neighbourhood?
Look for these commonly seen coyote signs:

Tracks

Coyote tracks are similar in size to those of a mid-sized dog. These bold animals often leave tracks behind them straight through a middle of a field. The stride (distance between imprints of the same paw) of a coyote averages 30 to 40 cm.

Coyote front paws have slightly larger outer toes. Only the 2 inner toes show claws. Coyote tracks are roughly the same size as those of a medium-sized dog.

Coyote paws are rectangular in shape. Often the outer edges of the planter pads do not show, making them appear round in shape.

Coyote hind paws are slightly smaller and have a convex leading edge to the planter pad

Dog paws usually show all four claws and are square in shape

Scat

Coyote scats are rope-like and generally under 2.5 cm in diameter (1 inch). Coyote scats typically contain a lot of fur, hair, bones, plant material, and occasionally feathers.

Coyote scat

A good indication that you have found a coyote scat is its location. Coyotes often deposit their scat right in the middle of a trail or path as they use their scat as a territory boundary marker (along with urine). Scent from the anal musk glands is released with the scat, leaving a personal identification, similar to a fingerprint, for other coyotes to detect.

Slides

Another sign of coyote activity is a "slide." Slides are smooth tracks that coyotes have dug out to pass beneath an obstacle such as a fence. Coyotes will also enlarge tracks previously used by raccoons and skunks.

A coyote passes under a fence

Photo by K. Fletcher

Vocalizations

A good way to confirm coyote activity in your area is to listen for their vocalizations. You can listen to a coyote howl and bark here.

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