Coyotes found in low deserts and valleys weigh about 20 pounds, less than half of their mountain kin, who can weigh up to 50 pounds.
Desert Coyotes are light gray or tan with a black tip on the tail. Coyotes of high elevations have fur that is darker, thicker and longer; the under parts are nearly white, with some specimens having a white tip on the tail. In winter the coats of mountain coyotes become long and silky, and trappers hunt them for their fur.
The coyote's tail is used in threat displays. It becomes bushy and is held horizontally when the Coyote displays aggression.
The coyote's hearing is very acute and is used for detecting prey and avoiding danger. Movement and position of the ears are used to communicate mood and rank.
The coyote is found throughout North America from eastern Alaska to New England and south through Mexico to Panama.
The coyote's sense of smell is highly developed and is used to detect prey and carrion. It is also used to detect the scent left by other coyotes as territorial markers.
The coyote is digitigrade meaning it walks with only its toes touching the ground.
The coyote can run at almost 40 mph and can get over a 8' fence.
Communication
Howling - communication with others in the area. Also, an announcement that “I am here and this is my area. Other males are invited to stay away but females are welcome to follow the sound of my voice. Please answer and let me know where you are so we don't have any unwanted conflicts.”
Yelping - a celebration or criticism within a small group of coyotes. Often heard during play among pups or young animals.
Bark - The scientific name for coyotes means "Barking dog," Canis latrans. The bark is thought to be a threat display when a coyote is protecting a den or a kill.
Huffing - is usually used for calling pups without making a great deal of noise.
According to Shoshone Folk Lore the reason Coyotes howl is long ago, Coyote had many magical powers. He became so proud that he wanted to makes friends with the loftiest of beings. One night he called to the brightest star, "take me with you into the sky world!" Bright Star laughed, then leaned close so Coyote could grab on to one of her points. "I will take you to meet Moon." At first Coyote whispered "oohs" and "aahs" as they glided upward, but when they approached Moon, he became so cold that he called to Star to stop. "Everyone knows that Moon is made of ice. Of course it's cold," she answered. Coyote's paws were freezing. He could hold on no longer. So he fell down through the night sky, until he landed with a thump back on earth. When he woke up, his family was around him. "I feel strange," he murmured. Then much louder, "I have no more magic!" He began to cry and yip and howl, and the other coyotes wailed along with him. When that full ice moon is in the sky, they still howl their sadness at Coyote's loss.
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