Coyote (Canis latrans) are a member of the Canidae family similar to wolves. It is a very successful
mammal and occupies a huge range in North and Central America. It can be found as far south as Panama and as far north as Alaska and northern Canada. Only the upper
portions of Canada is free of Coyotes. Currently there are 19 subspecies of Coyote recognized. Unlike their cousin the Timber Wolf (Canis lupus) who it is believed to
have originalted in Eurasia and later migrated to North America, the coyote evolved in North America along side of the Dire Wolf (Canis dirus). Their origins can be
traced back to the Pleistocene Epoche approximately 1.8 million years ago.
"Coyotes typically grow to 30–34 in (76–86 cm) in length, not counting a tail of 12–16 in (30–41 cm), stand about 23–26 in (58–66 cm) at the shoulder and, on average,
weigh from 15–46 lb (6.8–21 kg). Northern coyotes are typically larger than southern subspecies, with the largest coyotes on record weighing 74.75 pounds (33.91 kg)
and measuring 1.75 m (5.7 ft) in total length. The color of the coyote's pelt varies from grayish-brown to yellowish-gray on the upper parts, while the throat and
belly tend to have a buff or white color. The forelegs, sides of the head, muzzle and paws are reddish-brown. The back has tawny-colored underfur and long, black-tipped
guard hairs that form a black dorsal stripe and a dark cross on the shoulder area. The black-tipped tail has a scent gland located on its dorsal base.
Coyotes shed once a year, beginning in May with light hair loss, ending in July after heavy shedding. The ears are proportionately large in relation to the head,
while the feet are relatively small in relation to the rest of the body. Certain experts have noted the shape of a domestic dog's brain case is closer to the coyote's
in shape than that of a wolf's. Mountain-dwelling coyotes tend to be dark-furred, while desert coyotes tend to be more light brown in color." - Wikipedia
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