What Do Coyotes Eat
Coyotes (also called American jackals or prairie wolves) are animals that cover about 2.5 miles (4km) per night hunting for food. But what do coyotes eat? This post will answer that question and also tell you a few interesting facts about coyotes.
What Do Coyotes Eat?
Coyotes are opportunistic carnivores, which means they prey on any animals they can find. 90% of their diet is made up of mammals- voles, prairie dogs, eastern cottontails, ground squirrels and mice. Coyotes will also eat small birds, snakes, lizards, deer, javelina, cattle and small insects. Coyotes also eat some fruits and vegetables during autumn and winter months.
Interesting Facts About Coyotes
- Coyotes hunt in packs. They will spend up to 21 hours catching their prey!
- Coyotes have been seen eating rubbish. They sometimes try and catch domestic pets (such as dogs).
- 90,000 coyotes are killed each year by the United States government. This is done to protect cattle and other livestock.
- A coyote’s tail is about 30-40cm (12-16 in) long.
- Coyotes are nocturnal animals- although they are sometimes spotted during the day.
- Cougars and bears sometimes kill coyotes.
- Coyote fur is used in some men’s coats.
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