Many people wonder if the sounds of coyotes and owls are similar, often mistaking one for the other in the quiet of the night. While these two nocturnal animals are both vocal, their calls possess distinct characteristics that allow for clear differentiation. Understanding the unique vocalizations of each species helps to identify the creature behind the call.
The Diverse Sounds of Coyotes
Coyotes communicate through a rich repertoire of vocalizations, earning them the nickname “song dogs.” Their most recognizable sound is the howl, a long-distance call used to locate pack members, establish territory, and warn other coyotes to stay away. This howling can create an “auditory fence” around their domain. Coyotes also produce yips, which are shorter, staccato sounds often heard during social bonding, excitement, or when pups are interacting. These yips can also serve a territorial function, signaling their presence to other groups.
Barks are another common coyote vocalization, primarily used as warning signals or alerts. A single, sharp bark might indicate a mild alert, while rapid, aggressive barking often signifies territorial defense or agitation. These barks can blend into howls, forming a “bark-howl” to convey a high-intensity threat. Yelping and screaming are distress signals, used when a coyote is injured, scared, or showing submission to a dominant animal. A small number of coyotes can sound like a much larger group due to the variety and modulation of their calls.
The Distinctive Calls of Owls
Owls, as secretive birds of the night, rely heavily on their vocalizations for communication. The classic “hoo-hoo” sound is most commonly associated with owls, particularly the Great Horned Owl, which uses deep, rhythmic hoots for territorial claims and to attract mates. Male and female Great Horned Owls often engage in duets, with the female’s voice typically higher in pitch due to her smaller syrinx. Other owl species have different signature calls.
Eastern Screech Owls, for instance, are known for two primary calls: an even-pitched trill, often described as a “bounce song,” used for contact between mates, and a shrill, descending whinny that sounds like a miniature horse. Barn Owls, unlike most hooting owls, produce a harsh, raspy screech or shriek, which can sound unsettling. They also make hissing sounds, especially as chicks begging for food or adults warning off intruders. Owls can produce a variety of other sounds, including whistles, barks, growls, and bill snaps, each serving specific purposes like courtship, territorial defense, or warning.
Differentiating Coyote and Owl Sounds
Distinct differences in their vocal patterns, pitch, and timbre allow for accurate identification. Coyote sounds are characterized by their varied, often continuous “chorus” of howls, yips, and barks that can rise and fall in pitch, creating a complex, multi-layered soundscape.
Owl calls, conversely, tend to be more structured and repetitive, often with a clear, distinct rhythm or specific quality. For example, the Great Horned Owl’s hoots are deep and measured, while the Eastern Screech Owl’s trills are consistent, and a Barn Owl’s screech is sharp and singular. While some owls may produce barks or other varied sounds, these are generally less sustained or complex than a coyote’s vocal suite. To differentiate, focus on whether the sound is a sustained, fluctuating chorus of multiple call types (coyote) or a more consistent, rhythmic, and species-specific vocalization (owl).