The coyote, Canis latrans, is one of Texas’s most widespread and adaptable predators, successfully occupying nearly every habitat across the state. Though often mistaken for a much larger animal, the coyote is a medium-sized canid that generally remains smaller than many people assume. Understanding the actual dimensions of the Texas coyote provides a clearer picture of this ubiquitous animal’s physical characteristics.
Typical Weight and Measurements
The average Texas coyote is a lean, athletic animal, and its size is often overstated in popular perception. A typical adult weighs between 25 and 40 pounds, with some individuals reaching a maximum of around 50 pounds. This weight range is significantly smaller than that of a gray wolf, which allows the coyote its characteristic speed and agility.
The species exhibits subtle sexual dimorphism, meaning males are generally slightly larger than females. An average male coyote weighs about 37 pounds, while the average female weighs approximately 30 pounds. Measuring from the nose to the tip of the tail, the total body length for a Texas coyote typically ranges from 3.5 to 4.5 feet (1.0 to 1.35 meters).
At the shoulder, an adult coyote stands between 20 and 24 inches (51 to 61 centimeters) tall. This moderate height, combined with their lean build, contributes to their characteristic sloping silhouette. The slender frame distinguishes the coyote as an opportunistic predator specialized for capturing small to medium-sized prey, such as rabbits, rodents, and insects.
Regional Variations Across Texas
The vast geographical expanse of Texas directly influences the physical size of its coyote population, which is divided among at least three recognized subspecies within the state. Coyotes inhabiting the Panhandle and other northern regions are known to be considerably larger than those found in the southern parts. This size gradient is consistent with Bergmann’s rule, an ecological principle suggesting that individuals in colder climates tend to be larger to conserve body heat.
The subspecies Canis latrans latrans occupies the Panhandle, Canis latrans texensis is found across the western half, and Canis latrans frustror is associated with the eastern half of the state. The denser prey base and wetter environments found in the eastern and coastal regions can also affect local population health and size.
The “average” measurements are merely an aggregate of these diverse regional populations. This environmental adaptation confirms the coyote’s ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, from the arid desert of West Texas to the brushy areas of the East. The availability of food and the ambient temperature are key factors that contribute to the final adult dimensions.
Distinguishing Physical Features
Beyond numerical measurements, the Texas coyote possesses several key physical features that make it distinct from other canids, like domestic dogs or wolves. The head is characterized by a narrow, pointed muzzle and large, highly erect, triangular ears that appear oversized in proportion to its skull. This structure contributes to its reputation as a sleek and fox-like canine.
The coat is generally a grizzled mix of gray and buff-colored fur, often overlaid with black guard hairs. The muzzle, legs, and belly often display lighter, yellowish-buff or white coloration. A defining visual characteristic is the tail, which is long, bushy, tipped with black, and characteristically held low or pointing downward when the animal is moving.
The body is built for endurance, featuring long, slender legs and a deep, narrow chest. This lean, athletic build, combined with its distinctive pointed features and low tail carriage, allows for reliable identification in the field. These consistent physical proportions are the most reliable way to distinguish a coyote.