Coyotes are common and adaptable wild canids found across North America, thriving in diverse environments from wildlands to urban settings. Understanding their physical characteristics is helpful for anyone interested in wildlife. This knowledge aids in reliably distinguishing them from other animals. Recognizing a coyote by its appearance is a practical skill for observing these creatures in their natural or adapted habitats.
General Physical Characteristics
Coyotes possess a lean and athletic body structure, giving them a general resemblance to a medium-sized domestic dog. Adult males typically weigh between 18 to 44 pounds (8 to 20 kg), with females being slightly lighter, averaging 15 to 40 pounds (7 to 18 kg). Their shoulder height generally ranges from 21 to 24 inches (53 to 61 cm), and their total body length, including the tail, is approximately 3 to 4.5 feet (1.0 to 1.35 meters). Geographic location influences their size, with northern coyotes often appearing larger and heavier than those found in southern regions.
The typical fur color is a blend of grizzled grayish-brown or tawny hues, often mixed with black and white hairs, providing effective camouflage in varied environments. This coloration can range from silver-gray to even a reddish-brown, commonly with lighter, often white, fur on their chest and belly. Their fur is characterized by a dense, soft undercoat covered by longer, coarse guard hairs, contributing to a somewhat shaggy and robust look, especially during winter. The texture and length of their fur vary with seasons and geography, becoming notably thicker and longer in colder climates for insulation.
Distinctive Features
Their ears are notably large, triangular, and typically held erect. These highly mobile ears are crucial for their acute hearing, enabling them to detect subtle sounds from a distance, which is vital for hunting and avoiding detection. They can swivel to pinpoint sounds.
The coyote’s muzzle is distinctively narrow and pointed. This feature helps differentiate them from the broader snouts found in some other canid species. Their eyes typically display a striking yellow-amber color. While coyote pups are born with blue eyes, this coloration gradually transitions to the characteristic golden-brown or amber hue as they mature.
Their tail is bushy and generally carried low, often appearing to hang down or between their legs, particularly when trotting or running. This tail almost always features a distinctive black tip, often described as resembling a “paintbrush dipped in black ink.” Unlike many domestic dogs, a coyote’s tail is rarely carried high or curled over its back, providing a clear visual cue. Their legs are slender but strong.
Coyote vs. Similar Canids
Coyotes are frequently mistaken for other canids, but distinct visual differences exist. Distinguishing them from domestic dogs can be challenging due to the immense variety of dog breeds. Coyotes maintain a consistent appearance, however, unlike the diverse sizes, fur colors, and ear shapes observed in dogs. Coyote tails are consistently bushy, straight, and carried low, typically with a black tip, whereas many dog breeds have tails that curl upwards or are carried high.
When compared to wolves, coyotes are significantly smaller and more slender in build. Wolves are notably larger, often weighing 80 to 120 pounds, with a more robust and muscular physique. Wolves also tend to have broader muzzles and larger paws. A wolf’s tail is often carried horizontally or slightly elevated, unlike the coyote’s consistent downward carriage.
Foxes, particularly red foxes, are considerably smaller than coyotes. Red foxes typically weigh between 8 to 17 pounds, making them much lighter than coyotes. Foxes often possess very bushy tails that are frequently tipped with white, carried horizontally or upwards. In contrast, a coyote’s tail is less bushy than a fox’s and consistently features a black tip.