Coyotes hunt deer, but this predation occurs under specific conditions, not as a constant threat. As opportunistic predators, their hunting success is influenced by deer vulnerability and environmental factors. Deer remains can be a significant portion of their winter diet.
Prey Selection
Coyotes primarily target vulnerable deer, including fawns, and sick, injured, or old adults. Fawns are especially susceptible during their first few weeks, making the birthing season a time of increased predation. Coyotes are responsible for a substantial percentage of fawn mortalities.
Healthy, strong adult deer are generally not primary targets, as taking them down poses risk. Coyotes are opportunistic, readily taking easy meals like vulnerable live animals or carrion. They also consume deer remains from road accidents or those left by hunters.
Hunting Methods
Coyotes employ various strategies when hunting deer, adapting their approach based on prey size and condition. While often hunting alone or in pairs for smaller prey, coyotes may form small groups to pursue larger deer. Even in groups, they do not always use wolf-like pack tactics; individual or pair hunting is common.
When targeting deer, coyotes use pursuit, defense testing, and exploiting weaknesses. They might engage in prolonged chases to exhaust deer, especially if already weakened. For adult deer, coyotes attack the rear or throat.
Influences on Predation
Several factors influence the likelihood and success of coyotes hunting deer. Environmental conditions play a significant role; harsh winters, deep snow, or ice make deer more vulnerable by hindering movement and weakening them. Habitat type also matters, as coyotes may have higher densities in open forests and certain plant communities, potentially affecting deer predation risk.
Coyote and deer population density impacts predation rates. While coyotes affect deer numbers, particularly fawns, their overall impact varies greatly by region and existing deer densities. Alternative prey, like rabbits or rodents, influences how much coyotes rely on deer. Other predators, like wolves or mountain lions, can also alter deer vulnerability or coyote behavior.
Ecological Role
Coyotes serve a significant ecological role as natural predators. By preying on fawns and weakened or diseased adult deer, they contribute to maintaining deer herd health. This selective removal of less fit individuals helps prevent illness and strengthens deer population genetic fitness.
Their presence can influence deer distribution and behavior within an ecosystem. Deer may alter foraging behavior or increase vigilance in areas with higher coyote activity, affecting movement patterns and habitat use. Coyotes are a permanent part of many North American landscapes, and their interactions with deer are a natural component of ecosystem dynamics.