Coyotes are a widespread species across Pennsylvania, having established populations throughout the state. Their presence extends from remote wilderness areas to suburban neighborhoods and even urban environments. Understanding their history, preferred habitats, and typical behaviors can help residents coexist with these adaptable canids.
The Eastern Coyote’s Arrival and Spread
The Eastern coyote, Canis latrans, is not native to Pennsylvania but migrated into the state. The first confirmed sighting of an Eastern coyote in Pennsylvania occurred in Tioga County in 1940. A significant influx of coyotes into northern Pennsylvania began in the late 1960s, originating from New York’s Catskill Mountains. From there, they spread south and west, colonizing the entire state by 1990.
The eastward expansion of coyotes was facilitated by the decline of large predators like wolves, which created available territory and resources. The Eastern coyote is notably larger than its western counterpart, attributed to interbreeding with gray wolves during its eastward migration.
Habitat and Distribution Across Pennsylvania
Coyotes in Pennsylvania demonstrate significant adaptability, inhabiting a wide array of environments. They are found in heavily forested regions, such as the northeast and northcentral parts of the state, as well as in agricultural areas. Their presence also extends to more densely populated areas, including cities like Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Erie.
While distributed throughout Pennsylvania, coyote populations are typically most concentrated in the northern half of the state. They often prefer areas with heavy, brushy cover, such as clearcuts, and frequently occupy the edges between forest and agricultural lands where prey is abundant. Coyotes thrive in suburban and urban settings due to readily available food, water, and shelter.
Understanding Coyote Behavior and Coexistence
Coyotes are generally nocturnal, with most activity occurring at night, though they can be observed hunting during daylight hours. They communicate using yips, barks, and howls. While they can assemble into larger packs, they often hunt alone or in pairs. Eastern coyotes are monogamous, forming pair bonds that can last for several years, and typically have litters of five to seven pups born between mid-April and early May. Young coyotes usually disperse from their family groups around October, often traveling 30 to 50 miles, though some have been known to travel up to 100 miles.
Coyotes have a varied diet that reflects the most available prey. Studies of coyote scat in Pennsylvania indicate that deer are a dominant food source, appearing in 57% of samples, often from carrion or vulnerable individuals. Their diet also includes smaller mammals like rabbits, woodchucks, mice, and voles, along with birds, fruit, berries, and occasionally, garbage or pet food.
To coexist safely with coyotes, prevent them from becoming habituated to human presence. Securing food sources is a primary step; this includes keeping garbage in tightly sealed containers, avoiding outdoor pet feeding, and cleaning up fallen fruit or spilled birdseed. Pet owners should supervise small pets closely when outdoors, as coyotes may view dogs under 40 pounds as potential prey, and cats are also vulnerable. Keeping pets on a leash during walks, especially at dawn and dusk, reduces risks.
If a coyote is encountered, act assertively to reinforce their natural wariness of humans. Do not run; instead, make yourself appear large, yell loudly, wave your arms, and throw small objects towards it. This practice, known as hazing, aims to make the coyote uncomfortable and encourage it to leave. Haze the animal until it completely leaves the area. Persistent or aggressive coyote behavior should be reported to local authorities.