The black coyote, a visually striking animal, is a color variant of the standard coyote, Canis latrans. This unique appearance is caused by melanism, a genetic condition that results in a dark or entirely black coat. Melanistic coyotes are relatively uncommon across North America, making sightings a notable event for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.
Key Identifying Features
The most distinguishing characteristic of a black coyote is the dense, dark fur that covers its body. This coat is not always a uniform, solid black, but often presents as a smoky-black or dark charcoal color. The dark coloration is caused by an overproduction of eumelanin, the pigment responsible for brown and black coloring in mammals.
Unlike the classic gray-tan coyote, the melanistic variant’s black fur dominates its entire body, though some individuals may display small white patches on the chest or feet. Beyond the color, the black coyote maintains the typical physical structure of its species. This includes a slender muzzle, large, erect, pointed ears, and a sinewy, lean build. They generally weigh between 20 and 50 pounds.
The dark color does not change the animal’s size or proportions compared to a non-melanistic coyote. However, eastern populations where black coyotes are found are often slightly larger than western coyotes due to historical hybridization. Researchers confirm the melanism trait does not correlate with an increase in body size. Their eyes are typically yellow or amber.
Geographic Range and Population Density
Black coyotes are strongly concentrated within the eastern populations of North America, particularly the Southeastern United States. Sightings are most reliably reported in states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. The melanistic trait is notably absent from western coyote populations, suggesting a unique origin in the East.
The genetic roots of this dark coat trace back to past interbreeding with other canids, specifically the now-endangered red wolf. This hybridization introduced the gene for melanism into the coyote gene pool as the species expanded its range eastward.
Melanistic individuals remain a minority, typically comprising a small percentage of the total local population. Research indicates they represent approximately 5.7% to 8.5% of the coyote population in the Southeast. The dark coloration may offer a survival advantage in certain environments, as melanistic coyotes often prefer areas with dense canopy cover and wetlands where their coats provide better camouflage.
Avoiding Misidentification with Other Canids
Black coyotes are frequently mistaken for other black-coated canids, most commonly wolves or large dogs. Correct identification relies on observing specific physical and behavioral differences. Size is a defining factor, as the average coyote is considerably smaller and leaner than a black wolf.
Black wolves are much heavier, typically weighing between 70 and 150 pounds, and possess a more robust, blocky head with shorter, rounded ears. In contrast, the black coyote maintains the characteristic narrow, pointed muzzle and large, pointed ears of its species. The tail carriage also offers clear distinctions: a coyote generally holds its tail low, while a wolf’s tail tends to be held straight out or slightly upward.
Differentiating a black coyote from a large black domestic dog, such as a German Shepherd or Labrador, can also be challenging. Coyotes have relatively longer legs and a more delicate, fox-like build than most similarly sized dog breeds. A coyote’s tail is straight and bushy, used for balance and communication, whereas dogs may exhibit a curled or wagging tail. Furthermore, the black coyote’s eyes are consistently yellow or light brown, unlike the variety of eye colors found in many dog breeds.
Black foxes are not a source of confusion, as they are significantly smaller than any coyote. Foxes also have a noticeably bushier tail and a much more delicate bone structure.