Coyotes are highly adaptable canids found across North America, from wild landscapes to urban settings. They play a role as predators, helping to manage prey populations. These animals are known for their intelligence and social structures, including strong family units, especially when raising young. Their ability to thrive in various habitats highlights their flexible life cycles and behaviors.
Understanding Coyote Pup Season
Coyote pup season primarily occurs in spring, following a breeding period from late winter to early spring. Coyotes breed between January and March, peaking in February. Gestation for a female coyote is approximately 63 days, with pups born from late March through May. Pups are born blind and deaf, relying completely on their parents for care.
Coyote litters typically range from four to seven pups, though this number can vary with food availability and population density. Pups spend their initial weeks in a den, which can be an enlarged burrow, a hollow tree, or a sheltered area. They begin to emerge from the den at around three weeks of age, remaining close to the den site. Birth timing can shift based on geographic location and climate, with northern regions seeing pups born later in spring.
Coyote Behavior During Pup Rearing
During pup-rearing, adult coyotes exhibit distinct behavioral changes driven by the need to protect and nourish offspring. Both parents, and sometimes other pack members, contribute to raising the young; males bring food to the den for the female and pups. This shared responsibility leads to increased activity around den sites. Coyotes may appear more frequently during daylight hours as they intensify foraging for the growing litter.
Coyotes become particularly protective around their dens and young. They may become assertive, standing their ground or “escorting” threats, such such as people or dogs, away from their territory. This protective behavior can extend a considerable distance from the den, sometimes up to a quarter-mile or more. The family may utilize multiple den sites, moving pups if a location feels compromised due to disturbances or parasite buildup.
Safe Encounters and Coexistence
Coexisting with coyotes, especially during pup season, involves understanding and respecting their behaviors. Keep pets, particularly dogs, leashed and supervised outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are often more active. Small pets should not be left unattended, as coyotes may perceive them as prey. Securing all outdoor food sources, including trash, pet food, and fallen fruit, prevents attracting coyotes to residential areas.
If a coyote approaches, hazing techniques can reinforce their natural wariness of humans. Hazing involves making yourself appear large and loud by shouting, waving your arms, or using noisemakers. Avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response; instead, back away slowly while continuing to haze the animal. If a den site is suspected nearby, maintaining distance and avoiding the area is recommended to prevent disturbing the family and minimize potential conflict.