Red coyotes exist, and their distinctive coloration results from various biological factors. While many people picture coyotes as uniformly gray or brownish, their fur comes in a range of shades. This reddish hue can stem from natural genetic variations within pure coyote populations or from historical interbreeding with other canid species. Understanding the origins of these diverse coat colors provides insight into the adaptable nature of these widespread animals.
Understanding Coyote Coloration
Coyotes display a wide spectrum of fur colors, extending beyond typical gray or tan. Their coats can feature shades of light gray, brown, blonde, and even black, with reddish or fulvous tones often interspersed throughout their fur, particularly on the legs, face, and ears. This variation is a result of genetic factors that control pigment production in their fur, determining the distribution and intensity of different pigments.
Geographical location also influences coyote coloration, as they adapt to their environments. Coyotes in high-elevation areas might exhibit more black and gray shades, while those in desert regions can appear more fulvous or whitish-gray. This diverse palette allows coyotes to camouflage effectively within their varied habitats across North America.
The Eastern Coyote and Hybridization
A significant reason for red-hued coyotes, especially in eastern North America, is hybridization. The Eastern Coyote, often referred to as a “coywolf,” is a hybrid resulting from historical interbreeding between western coyotes, eastern wolves, gray wolves, and even domestic dogs. This genetic mixing likely occurred as coyotes expanded their range eastward into former wolf territories, leading to a large mammalian hybrid zone.
Genetic studies indicate that Eastern Coyotes typically possess a mix of DNA, with percentages varying by region. They are generally 60-84% coyote, 8-25% wolf, and 8-11% domestic dog, though some populations show higher proportions of wolf or dog ancestry. This hybridization results in a canid larger than the typical western coyote, often weighing 30 to 45 pounds, but still smaller than a pure wolf. Their physical characteristics, including a more massive body, longer legs, and often a reddish or tawny coat, reflect this mixed lineage. These hybrid canids also exhibit behaviors intermediate between coyotes and wolves, such as forming more cooperative social groups and being capable of hunting larger prey like deer.
Distinguishing Red Canids
Identifying a red-hued canid in the wild requires observing physical characteristics. Red foxes, while distinctly reddish, are noticeably smaller than coyotes, typically weighing 10 to 15 pounds, and possess a bushy tail often tipped with white. Their snouts are also more pointed, and their legs may have black “stockings.” Coyotes, whether pure or hybrid, are generally larger, weighing 18 to 44 pounds, with a more slender build, narrower snout, and pointed ears. Their bushy tail usually hangs downwards and often has a black tip.
Distinguishing a red-colored coyote from a red wolf can be more challenging, as red wolves also exhibit rusty hues and are intermediate in size between coyotes and gray wolves. Red wolves are critically endangered and found only in specific recovery areas in eastern North Carolina, making sightings extremely rare. Wolves, in general, are significantly larger and heavier than coyotes, with broader muzzles, shorter and rounder ears, and longer legs. Observing size, ear shape, tail carriage, and overall body proportion helps differentiate these canids.