Large Mammal
Eastern Coyote
Great singer, vital rodent population manager
New to Maine. Here to Stay.
Coyotes may feel like new Mainers, but they’ve been part of our story for nearly a century. First documented here in 1936, coyotes weren’t introduced and aren’t invasive, they made their way east on their own four feet.
Highly adaptable and resourceful, coyotes gradually expanded their range and stepped into an ecological role once filled by wolves. Today, they’re found throughout the state and are here to stay.
Why Coyotes Matter
Coyotes play an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy for wildlife and people.
Benefits for People
Predators like coyotes are fascinating to hear (they’re amazing singers), observe, and photograph. These rodent-eating machines keep rodent populations in check around homes, farms, and gardens and prevent the spread of disease.
Benefits for Wildlife
Their appetites keep animal populations within what the land can support, helping ensure there are enough resources to go around and preventing dramatic population swings.
Maine’s Fleet-footed Sweethearts
Coyotes mate for life, which, aside from being very sweet, is also great for raising pups. But they have superpowers beyond their impressive feats of monogamy. They’re also incredible runners, sprinting at 25 MPH for long distances and even jumping 14 feet!
Quick Facts
Average Size
23-26 inches at shoulder, 30-35 pounds.
What's on the Menu
Both predator and scavenger, coyotes eat anything opportunistically, from animal carcasses (carrion) to deer to vegetation.
The Look
Slender muzzle, pointed ears, and a long bushy tail that hangs down, a timeless look. Their coats are generally tan, black, and gray but can also be red or blond. Canis latrans can pull off anything.
