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Coyote

Canis latrans

The Wily Coyote: The term "wily coyote" was possibly coined in response to this intelligent canid's problem-solving abilities when hunting prey. Coyotes will ambush a ground squirrel by waiting at one of the burrow's exits as a badger digs its way in at the entrance. When hunting in pairs, one typically distracts the attention of the prey while the other coyote sneaks up from behind.

A Diverse Diet: Coyotes will also stalk their prey, and when opportunity presents itself, leap vertically into the air, pouncing on an unsuspecting animal. They will also wade in the water to catch fish and forage along the banks for crayfish or turtle eggs. In general, coyotes eat a variety of food items, including small rodents, rabbits and carrion, as well as some fruits and plants.

Quick on the Paw: With the ability to sprint at speeds up to 40 mph even jackrabbits have a hard time staying ahead of a coyote.

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FACTS: More Coyote Facts

DID YOU KNOW?

An Unlikely Pair: Coyotes and badgers sometimes team up to hunt together; their respective skills of running and digging are a force for prey to reckon with.

Oh Deer: When hunting deer, coyotes work as a team to harass and pursue the animal to exhaustion.