Coyote

ND Coyote Hunting Guide

NDPredator
Canis latransNorth DakotaPredator

Also known as: Prairie wolf, Brush wolf

Coyote Fact Sheet Coyotes are lanky canines with long legs, pointed nose and ears, and a bushy tail. They have long, grizzled fur ranging from pale gray, dark gray or reddish. Their fur is generally darker on back and sides, with a pale chin, throat and belly, and a blacktipped tail. Tracks: Front–2-1/2" L, 2" W Rear– 2" L,1-1/2" W Walking stride: 13-1/2" - 17" Total Length 55-69 inches Weight 15-40 pounds Fun Facts: These highly resilient and adaptable canines were nearly absent from the state during the mid-1900s due to widespread use of poisons and aerial hunting. Since then, coyote numbers have rebounded, and they are currently one of the most abundant and commonly harvested furbearer in North Dakota.

Habitat & Range

Coyotes are found throughout North Dakota including open prairies, brushy grasslands, broken forests and agriculturally dominated habitats. Coyotes also are regularly found in urban and suburban environments. Breeding Season January-March Gestation Period 58-65 days (average 63) Litter Size 2-12 (average 6) Social Aspects Coyotes often form pair bonds and in some cases family groups made up of litters from multiple years.

Life History

Food: Coyotes are omnivorous, consuming prey such as rabbits and other small rodents, deer and livestock, and vegetation such as fruits, berries and nuts.

Status, Trends & Threats

Coyotes are abundant throughout the state and have a year-round open season.

Hunting Season

Day hunting: year-round. Night hunting: Nov 24 – May 31. Trapping: year-round

Bag Limit: No limit (unlimited take)
Size Limit: No specific size limit

Frequently Asked Questions

Regulations for hunting Coyote in North Dakota

Coyote hunting in North Dakota has liberal regulations. Day hunting with firearms, air guns, and archery is year-round. Night hunting (fox and coyote only): Nov 24 – May 31, must hunt on foot after dark. Cable devices: Nov 24 – Mar 15. Trapping: year-round. No bag limit.

How big are coyotes in North Dakota?

Coyotes in North Dakota have a total length of 55-69 inches and weigh 15-40 pounds.

Are coyotes abundant in North Dakota?

Yes, coyotes are abundant throughout the state. They were nearly absent in the mid-1900s but have since rebounded and are now one of the most abundant and commonly harvested furbearers.

When is Coyote hunting season in North Dakota?

Day hunting: year-round. Night hunting: Nov 24 – May 31. Trapping: year-round

What is the bag limit for Coyote in North Dakota?

No limit (unlimited take)

What's another name for Coyote?

Coyote is also known as Prairie wolf, Brush wolf in North Dakota.

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
North Dakota Hunting Regulations Season Dates Day hunting: year-round. Night hunting: Nov 24 – May 31. Trapping: year-round Link
North Dakota Hunting Regulations Regulations Coyote hunting in North Dakota has liberal regulations. Day hunting with firearms, air guns, and archery is year-round. Link