Maryland and Delaware have the distinction of being the last two states in the contiguous United States to be colonized by coyotes. During certain periods, insects and plants may predominate, while at other times carrion or live prey animals may be preferred. Although small mammals (mice, rabbits, etcвЂ¦) and birds are typically the most important food items during certain periods of the year, coyotes capitalize on seasonally and locally abundant food sources. Dietary items range from plant material and insects to deer and domestic animals. However, it is probable that population densities will continue to increase in remaining habitat types, including Maryland's suburban corridor.Д¬oyotes also have extremely broad food habits.

In Maryland, coyotes occupy most of the state's habitat types with the highest densities occurring in intermixed woodland/farmland areas. The coyotes' rapid range expansion throughout North America substantiates their adaptability and ability to thrive in a variety of habitat types. Gestation periods extend approximately 60-63 days and litters average 5-6 pups. Breeding season encompasses late January through March, with peak activities occurring during February. Natural HistoryД¬oyotes reach sexual maturity by one year of age and normally remain fertile throughout their life. Current trends appear to display a declining distribution gradient when proceeding in a west to east direction across the state with the highest densities in western Maryland and the lowest densities on the eastern shore. Since that time, population densities and occupied range have expanded incrementally and coyotes now occur statewide. Initial substantiated sightings occurred in Cecil, Frederick and Washington counties. Established populations now occur in every state and province in North America.Д¬oyotes are a relatively new addition to local ecosystems and were first documented in Maryland in 1972. Alterations and/or elimination of competing predators during the post-European colonization period facilitated rapid range expansion into eastern North America during the 20th Century. Distribution & Population CharacteristicsД¬oyotes were historically a western species with core populations found west of the Mississippi River. Coyotes from the northeastern US tend to be significantly larger than those found west of the Mississippi River.

Total length can exceed 60 inches, and shoulder height varies between 11/2 to 2 feet.

The predominant pelage coloration of individual coyotes occasionally includes red or black and various gradients between the two.ДЄverage adult weights range from approximately 30 to 40 lbs., with some individuals approaching 60lbs. Non-typical color phases occur infrequently. The lower frontal portion of the legs may display black stockings and the tail has a black tip. The chin, throat, chest and stomach are usually a lighter shade of brown or cream. Overall pelt coloration tends to be brown or buff interspersed with mottled gray or black. They have large erect ears, an elongated sharp muzzle and a long bushy tail.

Coyotes possess typical canine features and generally resemble a small German shepherd dog.

Coyote predators