For residents of Kansas City, questions frequently arise about the large canids they might encounter, specifically whether these animals are wolves or coyotes. This article aims to provide clear information on the likelihood of encountering wolves in Kansas City and how to differentiate them from the more common coyotes.
Understanding Wolf Presence in Kansas City
Gray wolves are exceptionally rare within the urban and suburban areas of Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas. Gray wolves were extirpated from Missouri by the early 1900s, and from Kansas around the same time due to intensive hunting and trapping. While individuals occasionally wander into Missouri from other states, these occurrences are infrequent. Since 2001, Missouri has only had six confirmed sightings of gray wolves, indicating their extreme rarity. Similarly, Kansas has had only two confirmed wolf sightings since 1974, one in 2012 and another in 2017.
Wolves generally require large, remote wilderness areas for hunting and establishing their territories, typically avoiding human-populated regions. The historical loss of their primary food sources, such as bison herds, also contributed to their disappearance from the Midwest. Therefore, any sightings of “wolves” in the urban or suburban parts of Kansas City are almost always misidentified coyotes, which are abundant and highly adaptable to human presence.
Distinguishing Wolves from Coyotes
Most large wild canid sightings in Kansas City are coyotes. Distinguishing them from wolves involves observing several physical and behavioral differences. Wolves are significantly larger and heavier, with male gray wolves weighing up to 70 kilograms (150 pounds) and standing around 90 centimeters (35 inches) at the shoulder, while coyotes typically weigh between 9 to 23 kilograms (20-50 pounds) and stand about 61 centimeters (24 inches) tall. A wolf’s head appears larger and broader with a wider, blockier snout and shorter, more rounded ears compared to a coyote’s more pointed, narrow snout and relatively longer, more pointed ears.
Wolves have a more robust appearance, with broader chests and often a noticeable ruff of fur around their necks. Coyotes, by contrast, possess a leaner frame and may appear longer from nose to tail with shorter legs. Their tails also differ; a wolf’s tail is generally bushy and carried straight or lower, whereas a coyote often carries its tail low, almost between its legs, and it tends to have a black tip. Behaviorally, wolves are typically more reclusive and avoid human interaction, while coyotes are highly adaptable and commonly seen in urban and suburban environments.
Interacting with Wild Canids
When encountering a wild canid, maintain a respectful distance and understand appropriate responses. Never approach, feed, or attempt to pet wild animals. Feeding wild animals can lead to them losing their natural fear of humans, potentially causing conflicts. Always keep pets on a leash, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active, and avoid leaving pet food outdoors.
If a wild canid does not retreat or approaches, make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms, making loud noises, and shouting. Do not run or turn your back, as this can trigger a chase response. Throwing small objects like stones or sticks nearby can also help deter the animal without causing injury. If an animal appears sick, injured, or exhibits aggressive behavior, it should be reported to local animal control or wildlife agencies.