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P   Part of the canid family canis latrans 

n      Weight ranges on average between 22- 34 pounds (weigh-ins from my studies)

n      Dominant pairs usually mate for life; subordinate members will start breeding if the alpha pair dies

n      Coyotes form highly social family units called packs

n      Pack size varies depending on habitat, available food sources, human impact (urban/rural)

n      ‘Vocalizations’ (howls, barks, throat growls, yips) are used to communicate between pack/non pack members-defending territory, distress, warnings, celebration, to locate pack members

n      My research concludes 2-3 adults, and pups, however, variations in pack size ‘cycle’ due to habitat/available food sources/mortality rates.

n      Juveniles are dispersed in the fall to establish their own territory, a juvenile may remain with the pack to help rear next years pups. The Creekpark pack demonstrated this behaviour for two years

n      ‘Lone’ or transient individuals do occur-utilizing buffer areas around  an established territory, however survival is more difficult for these loner animal.

n      Mortality rates are very high, humans having the highest impact, vehicles second

n      Coyotes demonstrate excellent skills as solitary/pair hunters and  when rearing pups the alpha male will provide much of the food.

n      Parents are key facilitators in teaching appropriate hunting skills to the pups.

n      Opportunistic omnivores they utilize carrion wherever possible, however, the coyotes diet consists of mainly rodents, rabbits, fruit, insects, human sources, geese (eggs)

n      Coyotes are an integral part of our diversified ecosystem and provide a necessary and healthy prey/predator balance

n      Brief periods of interaction between previous pack members of the Creekpark Pack during my studies occurred- vocalizations, proximity tolerance increased during these times.

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