Coyotes are highly adaptable canids, widespread across North America in diverse environments. Understanding their natural behaviors and annual cycles, particularly their reproductive season, promotes better awareness and harmonious interactions with human populations.
The Timing of Coyote Mating Season
Coyote mating season typically occurs during late winter, from late January through early March. The peak period for breeding activity often falls in February, though this can vary by geographical location and environmental conditions. The entire breeding season usually lasts about four to six weeks. For instance, in southern states, breeding may begin earlier, while in northern states, it might shift to March. These variations are influenced by factors such as climate and food resources.
Coyote Behaviors During Mating
During mating season, coyotes exhibit distinct behaviors as they seek and establish pair bonds. They are socially monogamous, forming strong bonds that can last for several years. Courtship rituals involve increased interaction, including play-wrestling, chasing, and mutual grooming, which helps solidify their partnership. Male coyotes become particularly attentive to females, carefully guarding them when a female is in heat.
Vocalizations also intensify during this period. You might hear heightened howling, yipping, and female invitation howls or whimpers, signaling readiness to breed. Coyotes also become more territorial as they establish and defend breeding grounds, with challenge howls serving as a warning. During mating, coyotes undergo a physiological “tie,” where the male and female are physically connected for up to 20 minutes.
Gestation and Pup Arrival
Following mating, the female coyote undergoes a gestation period averaging 58 to 63 days. Pups are typically born in spring, usually between April and May. Litters commonly consist of four to seven pups, though the number can vary, sometimes reaching eight or nine, influenced by factors like population density and food abundance. Pups are born blind and deaf, weighing approximately 0.33 to 0.5 pounds, and are dependent on their mother for nourishment and warmth. Their eyes open around 11 to 12 days, and they begin to emerge from the den at about three weeks. While the mother remains largely within the den initially, the male coyote provides food for her and later for the pups. Coyote pairs often prepare multiple den sites, which can be natural features or modified burrows, allowing them to move pups for safety if needed.
What to Expect and How to Respond
During and immediately following the mating season, residents may observe increased coyote activity and sightings. Coyotes may appear more active during the day, especially as they search for food to support the breeding pair and upcoming pups. Male coyotes can exhibit more assertive behavior during this time, particularly as they protect their territory and den sites. To minimize potential conflicts, secure food sources, such as pet food and garbage, to avoid attracting coyotes to residential areas. Supervising pets, especially smaller dogs, and keeping them leashed during walks can help prevent unwanted encounters, as coyotes may view them as territorial competitors or prey. If a coyote approaches, making loud noises, waving arms, or throwing small objects towards them can help reinforce their natural wariness of humans.