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State Animal: Coyote
The coyote is a member of the dog family. In size and shape the coyote is like a medium-sized
collie dog, but its tail is round and bushy and is carried straight out below the level of
its back.
The coyote is one of the few wild animals whose vocalizations are commonly heard. At night coyotes
both howl (a high quavering cry) and emit a series of short, high-pitched yips. Sometimes, when it is
first heard, the listener may experience a tingling fear of primitive danger, but to the
seasoned outdoorsman, the howl of the coyote is truly a song of the West.
One of the most adaptable animals in the world, the coyote can change its breeding habits, diet and
social dynamics to survive in a wide variety of habitats.
Alone, in pairs or in packs, coyotes maintain their territories by marking them with
urine. They also use calls to defend this territory, as well as for strengthening social
bonds and general communication.
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