Coyotes are a well-established and widespread part of Pennsylvania’s wildlife. These adaptable canids are present in rural, suburban, and urban fringe areas across the state.
Coyote Presence and Spread
Coyotes were not historically common in Pennsylvania; the first Eastern coyote was recorded in Tioga County in 1940. Their significant expansion began in the late 1960s, with an influx from New York’s Catskill Mountains. By 1990, coyotes had occupied the entire state, with higher populations in northern regions.
The Eastern coyote is believed to be a hybrid resulting from interbreeding between western coyotes and gray wolves, which may contribute to their larger size. This genetic makeup likely enhanced their ability to thrive in the diverse environments of the East, allowing them to colonize a wide range of habitats from dense forests to urban vicinities.
Their presence in Pennsylvania has become so common that they now outnumber black bears, bobcats, and otters in the state. This widespread distribution means residents across the state can encounter them. Their ability to utilize available food, water, and shelter in human-modified landscapes has been a key factor in their successful and continued expansion.
Recognizing Coyotes
Eastern coyotes in Pennsylvania resemble a medium-sized dog, often compared to a small collie or German shepherd. Adult males typically weigh between 45 to 55 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, generally weighing 35 to 40 pounds. Their total body length, from nose to tail, can range from 48 to 60 inches.
Their fur coloration varies, presenting as light blond, reddish blond, gray, or dark brown washed with black. Many coyotes have distinct black markings or lines running down the front of their front legs, and their cheeks and areas behind the ears often have reddish or chestnut tones. Coyotes possess erect, pointed ears and a bushy, bottle-brush tail that typically hangs in a downward position when they move. Their eyes are usually yellow, though some individuals may have brown eyes.
Distinguishing coyotes from foxes or domestic dogs involves observing these features and their behavior. Coyotes are significantly larger than foxes, which are roughly the size of a large house cat. Unlike red foxes, which often have a white tip on their tail, coyotes usually have a black-tipped tail. While some dog breeds might resemble coyotes, a coyote’s more slender muzzle, pointed ears, and the way it carries its tail can help differentiate them. Their vocalizations, a mix of yips, barks, and howls, are also distinctive and used for communication and territorial marking, especially at night.
Daily Life and Diet
Coyotes are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. However, they can frequently be observed hunting during daylight hours, particularly in the morning. They use a variety of sheltered areas for dens and resting, including burrows, hollow trees, rock crevices, and thick underbrush, sometimes even utilizing spaces under sheds or decks.
The social structure of coyotes often revolves around a monogamous mated pair, which can maintain their bond for several years. While they may hunt alone or in pairs, family groups can sometimes assemble into larger temporary packs. Young coyotes typically disperse from their family groups around six months of age, often traveling 30 to 50 miles, though some have been known to disperse up to 100 miles.
Coyotes are opportunistic feeders, consuming a diverse array of food items based on availability. Their diet commonly includes small mammals such as mice, voles, rabbits, woodchucks, chipmunks, and squirrels. Deer is a common food source, especially in winter, often through scavenging roadkill or preying on fawns. They also consume birds, insects, and various fruits and berries, which become more important seasonally. While their natural diet is varied, coyotes may prey on domestic animals, including livestock and pets, if opportunities arise, particularly if food sources become scarce or if animals are left unattended.
Coexisting with Coyotes
Coexisting with coyotes in Pennsylvania involves taking proactive steps to minimize potential conflicts. A primary measure is to never intentionally feed coyotes, as this can lead to them losing their natural fear of humans and associating people with food. Unintentional feeding should also be avoided by securing trash in animal-proof containers and bringing pet food bowls indoors, especially overnight. Fallen fruit should be cleared from around trees, and bird feeders should be removed or cleaned regularly to prevent attracting small prey animals that, in turn, draw coyotes.
Pet supervision is important, particularly for small dogs and cats. Small pets should not be left outside unattended, especially during dawn, dusk, or night when coyotes are most active. For larger domestic animals like chickens or rabbits, protective fencing, such as structural or electrical barriers, and secure enclosures are effective deterrents.
If a coyote is sighted nearby, it is important to encourage it to maintain its natural wariness of humans. Making yourself appear large, yelling, and making loud noises can help deter the animal. Throwing inedible objects like sticks or rocks in the coyote’s direction can also be an effective hazing technique. It is important to continue hazing until the coyote completely leaves the area, as they may initially run a short distance and then stop to observe.
Maintaining a clean yard by removing brushy areas near the home can reduce potential cover for coyotes and their prey. Sealing openings under and into buildings can prevent coyotes from using these spaces as dens. While coyote attacks on humans are rare, they are more likely to occur if coyotes become habituated to people or if they feel threatened. Giving coyotes space and not approaching them is a simple yet effective way to promote peaceful coexistence.