Coyotes

A scientist has broken down coyote calls to eleven distinct vocalizations: the woof, growl, the huff, the bark, the bark-howl, the yelp, two kinds of whine, the ‘wow-oo-wow’ (a greeting to others), the yip-yowl in groups, and a simple howl in groups. He contends, though, that more research is needed.

During mating season, female coyotes will be able to choose from more or less half a dozen suitors who will typically follow her around from a courteous distance. The males don’t fight with amongst themselves however; they just obediently stick it out until they are the last one standing. Or else they might lose interest and wander off for other opportunities. When two male coyotes remain, the female will make her choice. Couple coyotes will perform howling duets, touch noses and wag their tails. Their bond being established, mating will occur some weeks later. Then one day, after the male has been met with licking and friendly overtures for some time, the female will bear her teeth and growl at her mate.

In preparation for pups, females will dig the den with the aid of the male. They usually renovate abandoned fox or badger dens, and outfit other dens nearby in case they have to abandon one spot. Sometimes dens will have a second entryway, like a back door.