Also known as: Prairie wolf, brush wolf
The coyote's upper body is light gray or dull yellow with black-tipped outer hairs, reddish ear backs, and a yellowish muzzle. It is notably smaller than the gray wolf, with Missouri coyotes seldom exceeding 30 pounds while wolves weigh 60 to 120 pounds. They have a rich vocal repertoire including barks, yips, growls, and howls that can carry 2 to 3 miles.
Habitat & Range
Coyotes inhabit semi-open, brushy country, along timber edges, and in open farmlands, occupying territories of roughly 9 to nearly 30 square miles. They are most abundant in grassland habitat in northern and western Missouri and are increasing throughout the state.
Life History
Rabbits and mice make up the majority of their diet, supplemented by other animals, plants like persimmons, and carrion. Coyotes mate in early spring, with litters of usually 5 to 7 pups typically born in late April or May, with both parents caring for the young. They are primarily nocturnal but also active in daylight, living singly, in male-female pairs, or in family groups, with a lifespan of 6 to 10 years in the wild.
Status, Trends & Threats
Coyotes are common and generally increasing throughout Missouri. They are harvested for their fur, and hunters and trappers may pursue them during the appropriate furbearer season. A notable concern is that federally endangered gray wolves occasionally wander into Missouri and have been mistakenly shot by hunters who identified them as coyotes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can coyotes be hunted year-round in Missouri?
Coyotes may be hunted and trapped during the established furbearer season in Missouri. There is no bag limit, and they are considered a furbearer species. Landowners may also control coyotes causing damage on their property.
How can I distinguish a coyote from a gray wolf in Missouri?
Missouri coyotes seldom exceed 30 pounds, while gray wolves weigh 60 to 120 pounds. Coyotes also have a more pointed muzzle, smaller ears, and a lighter build. Hunters should be careful as federally endangered gray wolves occasionally wander into Missouri and have been mistakenly shot.
What is the best hunting method for coyotes in Missouri?
Popular methods include calling (using predator calls that mimic distressed prey), spot-and-stalk hunting, and trapping during furbearer season. Coyotes are most active at dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours.
