Coyotes are present across Arkansas, exhibiting remarkable adaptability to various environments. These canids have successfully expanded their range throughout the state, becoming a common part of Arkansas’s wildlife. Thriving in diverse habitats underscores their resilience.
Coyote Presence and Range
Coyotes are found in all 75 counties of Arkansas. Their widespread distribution highlights adaptability to varied conditions. Historically, coyotes were primarily found in western Arkansas before 1950, but by the 1960s, their range had extended statewide as timberland was cleared and land converted to pasture.
These animals inhabit a broad spectrum of environments, including forest edges, open farmland, and pastures. Their adaptability allows them to reside in suburban and urban areas, parks, beach fronts, and even office parks. They are now common throughout Arkansas.
Arkansas Coyote Characteristics
Coyotes in Arkansas typically resemble a small collie dog. They generally weigh between 15 and 40 pounds. Eastern coyotes may average around 45 pounds for males and 30 pounds for females, indicating some regional variation in size.
Their fur color often ranges from cinnamon and gray to reddish-gray. Many have dark or black guard hairs over their back and tail, with a lighter, whitish belly. Coyotes are primarily nocturnal, most active at night. However, they can also be active during the day, particularly when raising their young or in areas with minimal human interference. Their activity often peaks around dusk and dawn.
Coyotes are opportunistic eaters, consuming a diverse diet. Their diet consists of small rodents and rabbits, making up approximately 80% of their intake. They also feed on insects like grasshoppers, various fruits such as berries and watermelons, fish, frogs, snakes, and bird eggs. Carrion, garbage, and pet food are also consumed, demonstrating adaptable habits. They will also prey on poultry and small pets like cats and small dogs if the opportunity arises.
Coyote Coexistence and Safety
Living in areas with coyotes requires specific measures to minimize potential conflicts. Securing food sources around your home is key; this includes keeping garbage in tough, lidded containers and placing them in a secure building until pickup. Compost piles should also be enclosed to prevent access. Avoid intentionally feeding coyotes, as this can lead to them losing their natural wariness of humans.
Protecting pets is important. Small cats and dogs should be kept indoors at night, as coyotes are more active after dark. When walking dogs, always keep them on a leash and do not leave them unsupervised outdoors. Fencing can deter coyotes, but it should be at least 6 feet tall and buried 18 inches deep, as coyotes are capable climbers and diggers. Some fences can be enhanced with rollers or PVC pipe on top to prevent them from getting a grip.
If a coyote approaches, avoid running, as this can trigger their predatory chase response. Instead, make yourself appear large, wave your arms, and yell loudly. Use noisemakers such as whistles, air horns, or shaker cans can be effective. Throwing objects like sticks or small rocks towards the coyote, but not directly at them, can help deter them. Continue these hazing techniques until the coyote leaves the area.