Louisiana is an interesting home for coyotes and is becoming increasingly populated with these animals. Though it may come as a surprise to many, the reality of coyote’s presence in Louisiana has been rapidly increasing over the last decade. Coyotes have begun to inhabit both rural and suburban areas across the state, and are adapting to the environment more easily than expected. They are known to be quite curious creatures but usually remain away from human contact due to their natural wariness.
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Habitat
Coyotes living in Louisiana inhabit a wide array of habitats, ranging from rugged mountains to marshy wetland areas. One of the most common environments for coyotes in the state is amongst cropping fields, as these open environments provide easier access and available prey. While most active during night-time hours, evening sightings of coyotes can sometimes be spotted along roads or forests. These intelligent mammals are well adapted to their environment and have been known to take up residence even in the densest urban areas like that of New Orleans.
Diet
Coyotes in Louisiana feed on a wide array of food sources, including fruits, small animals, and even human garbage. They are opportunistic predators capable of surviving in harsh environments and often hunt alone or in small groups. Coyotes in Louisiana also make use of nearby wetlands and grasslands to source nutritious plant foods such as roots, insects, and other invertebrates which provide them with essential proteins and minerals. Hunting mostly at night during twilight hours, coyotes will roam across the landscape tracking their prey by smell.
Colour
The colouring of a coyote found in Louisiana can range from tan to reddish brown and even black. Generally, coyotes seen in the marshy regions tend to have more black fur than their counterparts in the northern and western areas which usually tend towards a golden-brown or reddish hue. Other factors such as diet, age and environment may also affect the hue and shades of a coyote’s fur.
When moving through their territories, Louisiana coyotes are known for being incredibly cautious yet curious at the same time. Even amongst their vibrant array of colours, these creatures manage to camouflage themselves into any landscape they choose to travel.
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
Various animals hunt coyotes and contribute to the control of their populations. Known predators of coyotes in Louisiana include larger mammalian predators like bears, wolves, tigers, and lions—which are obviously not native to the state. Most commonly though, grey wolves and bobcats can be found preying on coyotes. Hawks and eagles may also take advantage of smaller or injured coyotes caught out in open grasslands.
Reproduction
In Louisiana, coyotes reproduce in the spring season with each female typically giving birth to a litter of four to six puppies. Females generally form dens in remote locations that cannot be disturbed by humans or other animals. After a gestation period of around 60 days, pups will remain in the den for an additional month or two until they are able to venture out into their natural habitats with their parents.
Are there Coyotes in Louisiana?
Louisiana is a state teeming with wildlife, and it’s no surprise that coyotes are included in its varied animal population. In past centuries, coyotes weren’t native to the state, but they have since established themselves as highly adapted species. Many of the sightings are centred around populated areas near food sources. They can also be seen out in hunting parties during the night quenching their thirsts for larger animals such as rabbits or possums.
Hunting Coyotes in Louisiana
Coyotes are one of the main nuisance creatures in the state and many landowners are turning to hunt to control the population. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter, hunting coyotes in Louisiana can prove rewarding both for the landowner and for yourself. You can find success with tactics such as calling to emulate rabbit cries, using available cover to blend in and waiting patiently until a coyote appears.
Black Coyotes in Louisiana
There is some evidence that black coyotes are interbreeding with other coyote populations found in the state making it difficult to detect only true blacks. While not always forthcoming when confronted by humans, these remarkable canines tend to follow the same routes and territories as their more common grey cousins.
Trapping Coyotes in Louisiana
Trapping coyotes in Louisiana is an effective and humane way to help maintain a healthy balance between predatory animals and their prey. Held to strict regulations, it helps the state strengthen the power of conservation within its landscape. Trappers can use snare traps or leg-hold traps, both of which are designed to capture and hold coyotes without harming them.
References:
https://www.calcasieu.gov/services/animal-services-and-adoption/stop-coyotes/coyotes-101
https://www.coyotesmarts.org/what-to-do/
Rahul M Suresh
Visiting the Zoo can be an exciting and educational experience for all involved. As a guide, I have the privilege of helping students and visitors alike to appreciate these animals in their natural habitat as well as introducing them to the various aspects of zoo life. I provide detailed information about the individual animals and their habitats, giving visitors an opportunity to understand each one more fully and appreciate them in a more intimate way.
