Coyotes are now a widespread presence across Florida, inhabiting all 67 counties. These highly adaptable canids are generalist predators and opportunistic omnivores, meaning their diet varies significantly based on what food sources are most readily available in their environment. Their expansion into Florida is part of a natural range shift from western states, allowing them to thrive in diverse settings, from rural wilderness to suburban neighborhoods and even urban landscapes.
Primary Wild Foods
Coyotes in Florida primarily subsist on a varied diet of small to medium-sized wild animals. This includes common prey such as rodents, rabbits, and small birds. Their diet also incorporates reptiles such as lizards and snakes, and amphibians like frogs. Larger wild animals, such as deer fawns, opossums, and armadillos, can also be part of their natural prey.
Insects like beetles and mole crickets constitute a notable portion of their food intake. Beyond animal protein, plant matter serves as an important seasonal supplement to their diet. They eat a variety of fruits like palmetto berries, persimmons, blackberries, wild plums, and wild grapes. Coyotes also consume cantaloupes, watermelons, grasses, and grains.
Opportunistic and Human-Related Food Sources
Coyotes are highly opportunistic, readily adapting their feeding habits to include non-wild food sources, particularly those found near human settlements. Carrion, such as roadkill, provides a common and easily accessible meal. Unsecured pet food left outdoors is a strong attractant, drawing coyotes into residential areas.
Garbage is another significant food source for urban and suburban coyotes. Fallen fruit from cultivated trees and garden produce also contribute to their diet. While wild prey is preferred, small domestic animals, including feral cats and small dogs, can become targets if left unsupervised or easily accessible.
Protecting Pets and Property
To minimize conflicts with coyotes and deter them from properties, securing potential food sources is an effective strategy. Residents should never intentionally or unintentionally feed coyotes, as this can lead to habituation and increased interactions. All garbage cans must be secured with tight-fitting, animal-proof lids, and trash should only be placed curbside on the morning of pickup to prevent overnight scavenging.
Feeding pets indoors is recommended, but if outdoor feeding is necessary, food bowls should be promptly removed once pets have finished eating. Fallen fruit from trees should be regularly cleared, and areas around bird feeders kept tidy, as these can attract both coyotes and their prey. To protect pets, small dogs and cats should always be supervised when outdoors, with cats ideally kept indoors. When walking dogs, a short leash is advised, especially during dusk and dawn, and in areas with dense vegetation. Additionally, securing small livestock in predator-resistant enclosures at night can prevent losses.