The coyote, Canis latrans, possesses a paw structure fundamentally similar to other members of the Canidae family. The specific arrangement of bones, tendons, and pads is a specialized adaptation for efficient movement across varied terrain. Understanding the anatomy of the coyote’s foot reveals how this highly adaptable canid moves and hunts, which is reflected in its tracks and characteristic gait.
The Coyote’s Factual Toe Count and Paw Anatomy
A coyote has four functional toes on both its front and hind paws. These digits make contact with the ground and appear in a track. Each toe terminates in a non-retractable claw, which is generally visible as a precise mark in the soil. The four digital pads are tightly grouped, contributing to the streamlined shape of the foot.
The front paws also feature an additional, non-functional digit known as the dewclaw. Located higher up on the inner side of the leg, this dewclaw does not serve a weight-bearing function and does not register in a typical footprint. Below the functional toes is the large, single metacarpal pad on the front feet, or metatarsal pad on the hind feet, which is often described as triangular or heart-shaped.
The front feet are slightly larger than the hind feet because they bear more of the animal’s weight during movement. The four digital pads and the main pad provide traction and shock absorption, enabling the coyote to maintain speed and agility. The paw’s compact nature, with toes held close together, is a distinct feature of wild canids built for endurance.
Identifying Coyote Tracks and Locomotion
The coyote’s anatomy results in a track that is typically oval-shaped and compact, appearing narrow relative to its length. A key feature for identification is the tight grouping of the four toe pads. This grouping often allows one to draw an imaginary “X” in the negative space between the toes and the large heel pad. Tracks usually measure approximately 2.5 inches long, though Eastern coyotes often leave slightly larger prints.
Coyote locomotion is characterized by efficiency, evident in their purposeful, straight-line travel. When trotting, the animal often utilizes a direct register. This is where the hind foot lands precisely into the impression made by the front foot. This behavior creates a neat, linear trail that is highly energy-efficient.
A coyote’s stride length, which can range from 14 to 22 inches at a trot, is longer than that of a domestic dog of similar size. Unlike the tracks of many domestic dogs, which tend to be rounder and more splayed, coyote tracks are symmetrical. The two middle toes are often situated farther forward than the two outer toes. This combination of a narrow print and a straight path helps distinguish the track of a wild canid from that of a pet.