The Coyote

NPS	Canis latrans Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora Family: Canidae Genus: Canis Species: Latrans

Coyotes are members of the canine family. In shape and size, the coyote is kind of like a medium-sized Collie, but its bushy, round tail is carried out below its back. These animals are found in deserts and valleys. When measured, they weigh about twenty pounds, less than half of the coyote's mountain kin, who weigh about fifty pounds. The higher the elevation, the darker, thicker, and longer the fur is, but the under parts are white. Some species have white-tipped tails. The tail is a threat. It becomes bushier and turns sideways when the coyote displays aggression. Their hearing is very good and is used for finding food and avoiding predators.The nose is very important as well. The coyote's sense of smell is very developed and helps it to smell carrion and the territories of other coyotes. Last, but not least, the feet have five digits and the coyotes only walk on their toes. That means they are digitigrades.

There are eight other species of Canis. There are jackals, gray wolves, red wolves, and all the domestic dogs.

Usually, coyotes dig their own den, but sometimes find a natural hole or a badger hole and make it bigger. The coyote tries to hide its den, but because of the path that leads away from the dens they are easy to find. These animals use the holes to give birth to their pups and to sleep. Coyotes do not hibernate during the winter like some animals do.