Coyotes are highly adaptable canids, and understanding their denning habits reveals their survival strategies. A den provides a secure, sheltered space, particularly during vulnerable life stages. Knowing where and when coyotes use dens is important for coexistence.
Preferred Den Locations
Coyotes are flexible in selecting den sites, prioritizing concealment and protection. In natural settings, dens are established within dense brush, under rocky outcrops, or inside hollow logs, providing immediate cover from predators and elements.
Abandoned structures or human-made features are also frequently utilized. These include old buildings, culverts, or large drainage pipes. Such locations offer pre-existing shelter, appealing where natural cover is scarce.
In urban and suburban landscapes, coyotes den in overgrown lots, under sheds, or within dense backyard vegetation. These diverse locations are chosen for security, proximity to food and water, and safety from human disturbance. A den site often provides an elevated position or dense cover, allowing coyotes to observe their surroundings while remaining hidden.
Building and Adapting Dens
Coyotes often select existing natural structures or abandoned burrows for dens. They may expand burrows created by other animals, such as badgers or groundhogs, rather than digging new tunnels. When they do excavate, their dens typically feature a main entrance and a tunnel leading to a central chamber.
The den chamber provides a secure space for the mother and her pups. Dens may have multiple entrances, offering escape routes, though complex tunnel systems are less common. The interior of the den can be lined with natural materials like grass, leaves, or fur, insulating the chamber and providing comfort for pups.
When Dens Are Used
Coyote dens are primarily used for reproduction and raising young. The breeding season typically occurs in late winter, with pups born in early spring. During this time, the female coyote and her pups will inhabit the den.
Pups remain in the den for several weeks after birth for safety. As they grow, they begin to venture out, and the family group typically abandons the den by late summer or early fall. Adult coyotes generally do not use dens outside of the pup-rearing period, preferring to rest and sleep in open areas with adequate cover.
Signs of a Den
Identifying the presence of a coyote den involves observing several indicators. Visible tracks and scat leading to and from an opening can suggest active use of a den site. The ground around the entrance might show signs of wear or matted vegetation from repeated entry and exit.
Excavated dirt piled near an opening is another common sign, indicating recent digging or enlargement of the den. Prey remains, such as bones or fur, near the entrance also indicate den use. Occasionally, young pups yelping or whimpering can be heard from within an active den, especially during the spring months.