Coyotes are highly adaptable canids found across diverse North American landscapes, from dense forests to urban environments. Their range has expanded significantly from the prairies and deserts of Mexico and central North America, now encompassing nearly every U.S. state and extending into Canada. These opportunistic animals play a role in their ecosystems, influencing prey populations and interacting with other carnivores. While successful predators themselves, coyotes are also part of the food web and can become prey for larger, more dominant animals.
Mammalian Predators
Larger mammalian carnivores represent the primary predatory threat to coyotes. Gray wolves are significant predators, often viewing coyotes as both food and competition. In areas where wolf populations have been reintroduced, such as Yellowstone National Park, coyote numbers have shown a notable decline, with one study reporting a 39% reduction in the Lamar River Valley due to wolf activity. Wolves dominate coyotes and may actively kill them, sometimes due to territorial disputes or competition for resources rather than solely for food.
Cougars, also known as mountain lions, are another major predator of coyotes. These ambush predators are skilled hunters and will prey on coyotes when opportunities arise. Studies indicate that cougars can account for a substantial portion of coyote mortality in certain areas, with one estimate suggesting nearly a quarter of a local coyote population could be killed by cougars annually. While cougars primarily hunt larger ungulates like deer, coyotes are an opportunistic target.
Black bears and grizzly bears also occasionally prey on coyotes. While bears are omnivores, they will kill and consume coyotes if the opportunity arises, particularly in conflicts over carcasses or when protecting their young. These interactions are often opportunistic rather than targeted hunting. Less commonly, large bobcats or Canada lynx might prey on coyote pups or injured individuals, though they are not considered primary predators of adult coyotes.
Avian Predators
Large raptors can also pose a threat to coyotes, especially to younger or more vulnerable individuals. Golden eagles are powerful birds of prey known to attack coyotes. While they primarily hunt smaller mammals, golden eagles have been observed preying on coyote pups and, in some instances, even engaging with adult coyotes, particularly over contested food sources like carcasses. These eagles utilize their strong talons to inflict fatal injuries.
Great horned owls are another avian predator that can target coyotes, predominantly focusing on pups. These nocturnal hunters are capable of taking down young coyotes, contributing to pup mortality within a population. While less common for adult coyotes, large raptors can capitalize on situations where a coyote is compromised or isolated.
Factors Influencing Predation
Several factors increase a coyote’s vulnerability to predation. Age is a significant determinant, with coyote pups being considerably more susceptible to attack by various predators. A coyote’s health also plays a role; sick or injured individuals are less capable of evading predators and become easier targets. The size and cohesion of a coyote pack can influence its safety, as solitary coyotes are more exposed to risk than those in a group. Habitat type and the availability of alternative prey for the predator also affect vulnerability; open landscapes make coyotes more visible, and scarce preferred food sources may lead predators to target coyotes.