Coyotes in Georgia (Diet, Lifestyle, Habitat..)

Coyotes have always been an integral part of the Georgia landscape. But in recent years, these animals have grown more visible and populous as they have adapted to human habitation and encroachment into their natural habitats. The population increase not only results in increased sightings of these creatures, but also interactions between coyotes and humans that can have both beneficial and harmful consequences. 

Habitat

Coyotes inhabit a wide range of habitats in Georgia, from mountains and hardwood-pine forests to regionally unique coastal salt marsh regions. They have adapted to the presence of humans, often taking advantage of disturbed landscapes created by development and agricultural activities. While these animals can survive in most types of habitats, they prefer grasslands with plenty of open space and patches of dense vegetation. Coyotes move around a lot but they prefer to establish dens near water sources such as rivers, streams and wetlands. During winter months coyotes will also move into more densely forested areas or areas that provide greater cover from extreme weather conditions. 

Diet

Coyotes in Georgia generally consume a very varied diet. They feed on small mammals such as mice and voles, but also enjoy eating fruits like berries and apples, insects, reptiles and ground-dwelling birds. Plant matter such as grass or even corn may also be taken advantage of when the opportunity arises. Deer carrion can be an important food source for these opportunistic animals. The diet of coyotes largely depends on the season and availability of different food sources. As they are nocturnal animals, coyotes are known to scavenge pastures at night as well as hunt during both day and night depending on their needs in order to survive.

Colour

Coyotes in Georgia are typically various shades of grey and brown that help them blend into their environment. In the summertime, their coat may take on a reddish hue due to the warmer temperatures. The coyotes living in Georgia also have lighter fur around their eyes which can give them an intimidating perceived look when they are out hunting for prey at night. Some researchers have noticed white markings around the backs of coyotes’ necks, perhaps to make them stand out more when communicating with one another or when trying to communicate danger to other birds and animals nearby. 

Size, Lifespan and Weight 

The average size of these creatures is between four and six feet long, depending on their age and gender. These animals live anywhere from ten to thirteen years but some can reach nearly fourteen years in age. The average weight of an adult coyote is only 30 pounds but this varies again depending on the sex of the animal and which specific breed it belongs to. 

Predators

Predators of coyotes in Georgia include bobcats, domestic dogs and humans. Coyotes generally show fear toward these species due to their size and strength. Additionally, owls are also known to prey upon coyotes in Georgia as they quietly hunt during the night hours. Wolves have also re-emerged on the landscape within parts of Georgia, providing an additional threat to coyote populations. 

Reproduction

Coyotes in Georgia often reproduce once a year during the spring months. During this time, coyote pairs will remain monogamous while they raise their young together. One litter of pups are born, usually containing around four to seven pups. These pups stay with their parents until they are old enough and mature enough to fend for themselves; this is usually after eight or nine months of age. By then, the older coyote yearlings can head off and find their own territory where they can start reproducing on their own.

Coyotes in Georgia sound

Coyotes are one of the most vocal inhabitants of the Georgia sound. Their long, haunting howls are often associated with nighttime, as they often call out during twilight and throughout the night in order to exchange signals over long distances. Although their yelp and yip may appear to be chaotic at first, research has shown that each coyote has a unique voice and pattern of communication – helping them establish a family unit and ward off potential predators.

Coyotes in Georgia size?

Georgia is home to one of the smallest breeds of coyote, which is referred to as the ‘eastern coyote’. These animals usually grow between 4-5 feet in length and are typically a black and grey colouration, though they do occasionally have some reddish highlights. Their average weight is between 30-50 pounds, but they have been known to reach up to 80 pounds on rare occasions.

Coyotes in Georgia mating season?

Coyotes tend to become especially active during their mating season, which typically takes place during the winter months. During this time, male coyotes will work to protect their territories and attract mates with a variety of vocalizations, including howling and yipping calls. Female coyotes will typically give birth to litters of 2-12 pups around mid-spring.

Coyotes in Georgia Howling?

Coyotes are often most active at night and howling allows them to communicate with other pack members located miles away. While they were once rarely seen in Georgia, now they can be found in all corners of the state. A nocturnal species, their chilling howls can echo through woodlands and wide open spaces alike. To some, their presence is a cause for distress, but the truth is that these canids are essential to maintaining balance and variety within ecosystems.

References:

https://www.gpb.org/news/2020/01/08/seeing-coyotes-everywhere-new-science-explains-why

https://www.tuckerga.gov/community/tucker_q_and_a/coyotes_faq.php

https://georgiawildlife.com/non-native-and-invasive-species-info

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/coyote-hazing