Coyotes are a well-established part of Michigan’s wildlife, found across all 83 counties. These adaptable canids inhabit diverse environments, from dense forests and open fields to suburban neighborhoods and urban centers. Their widespread presence means encounters are increasingly common for residents.
Coyote Presence and Characteristics in Michigan
Coyotes are highly adaptable animals, thriving in Michigan’s varied landscapes, including rural areas, farmlands, and increasingly, urban and suburban settings. They can be found in wooded areas, grasslands, and even wetland regions. This widespread distribution is partly due to their ability to remain largely unnoticed by humans, even when living in close proximity.
Physically, Michigan coyotes typically have a grayish-brown coat with lighter, thick fur on their throats and bellies. Their dense fur can make them appear larger than their actual size. They possess pointed, upright ears and a bushy, black-tipped tail that usually hangs below their back when they run.
Adults generally weigh 20 to 45 pounds, with males sometimes larger. Some eastern coyotes show increased size due to historical interbreeding with wolves. While active day and night, their activity often peaks around sunrise and sunset. Their diet includes small mammals like mice, voles, rabbits, and squirrels, along with birds, insects, fruits, and carrion.
Living Alongside Coyotes
Coexisting with coyotes requires understanding their behavior and taking preventative measures. Never intentionally feed coyotes, as this causes them to lose their natural fear of humans and associate people with food. This habituation increases the risk of negative interactions. Secure outdoor food sources, such as pet food and garbage in tightly sealed containers, to avoid attracting coyotes.
Pet owners should supervise pets outdoors, especially small dogs and cats, and keep them on a leash. Bringing pets indoors at night further reduces risks. If a coyote is encountered, employ “hazing” techniques: make loud noises, yell, clap, or appear larger by waving arms. Maintain a safe distance and never run from a coyote. Report sick, injured, or unusually aggressive coyotes to local animal control or the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Coyotes in Michigan’s Ecosystem
Coyotes play a role in Michigan’s ecosystems as predators and scavengers. As predators, they regulate populations of small mammals like rodents and rabbits, providing natural pest control. This benefits agricultural areas and reduces the spread of some rodent-borne diseases. They also consume carrion, helping clean up dead animals and contributing to ecosystem health.
While primarily preying on smaller animals, coyotes can impact deer populations, particularly fawns. In areas where larger carnivores like wolves are less common, coyotes occupy a more prominent position in the food web. Their presence signifies a functioning natural system, contributing to the balance of wildlife populations across Michigan, from the Upper to the Lower Peninsula.