So much has been written about feral hogs overturning the balance in our natural eco-system(s). There is another mammal that has expanded its range exponentially.

Having the general appearance of a small shepherd-like dog, the coyote is now believed to be in every state in the U.S. The typical coyote weighs about 40 pounds, but their size can vary.

Though historically found in the western half of the United States, the great range expansion of the coyote is attributable to the demise of wolves, as well as relocation of coyotes for shooting sport by houndsmen groups. Highly adaptable, the coyote is now living in traditional open areas as well as agricultural communities, swamplands, dense forests and even suburban areas.

Coyotes are highly opportunistic feeders. Any type of small mammal is fair game. Fruits, berries, insects, reptiles and amphibians all supplement their varied diet. Carrion will also be eaten when other items are scarce. In suburban areas coyotes have been documented to readily prey on small domestic pets.

Coyotes are typically nocturnal but are sometimes seen during daylight hours. They have very keen hearing and eyesight. They are fast animals that can approach speeds of 40 miles per hour. Male coyotes, often a bit larger in size than the females, can have a home range/territory of up to 20 square miles.

Some landowners recruit other animals to act as security guards to discourage coyotes from visiting their property. Mules, donkeys, emus, ostriches, llamas and certain breeds of dogs show some promise in limiting coyote frequency and their predation on livestock. Some believe that coyotes are a major predator on young deer. Certain studies suggest that the white-tailed deer population can decrease in certain areas with high numbers of coyotes. Like their mammalian brethren, feral hogs, coyotes are intelligent animals. They can be a challenge to find and are wary of humans even though they now live in suburbs around us.

So once there were wolves in many areas of the United States. The smaller coyote has proved to be an adaptive replacement canine for the now rare wolves that once roamed our lands. They may even be in your own neighborhood.

Enjoy your nature trails.

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Coyotes have expanded their range