![coyote scat coyote scat](https://www.bear-tracker.com/coyotetracks/coyotescat62208.jpg)
This reflects their dependence on small mammals during the colder months.
![coyote scat coyote scat](https://lh3.ggpht.com/-yIjSs_zPdZg/UVTxBvwegoI/AAAAAAAACZ4/5B6jVBNMzSw/s1600/Coyote+scat,+28+Mar+2013.jpg)
During winter and spring, their scat appears narrow, tapered and filled with animal hair. While ill will towards humans is easily imagined as a secondary motive, supporting evidence remains inconclusive.įor the few visitors who care to know the difference, coyote scat holds evidence of diet change.
![coyote scat coyote scat](https://live.staticflickr.com/1019/1388603600_be1399a228.jpg)
They may warn interlopers away from high density sources of fruit and berries. The very obvious (and annoying) middle of the road scat likely serve as territorial markers. At night, coyotes use our roads just like we do, as an easy route from one place to the next. However, it is coyotes, rather than inconsiderate dog owners, who seem mostly blame. Unfortunately, it also coincides with increased staff and visitor complaints of un-bagged dog poop on Arboretum roads. This seasonal diet change directly coincides with increased coyote sightings. However, in late summer and fall, they heavily supplement their diets on the abundant fruits, vegetables, and berries. During the winter and spring, coyotes predominantly depend on urban mammals including rabbits, mice, voles, squirrels and rats. These urban areas also offer diverse food sources that omnivorous coyotes require for good nutrition. Patchwork yards, parks, and lots emulate the fragmented habitats that this species prefers elsewhere. Seasonal Diets and Walking HazardsĪlthough the city environment may not seem “natural”, it actually provides good coyote habitat. That said, visitors should never approach coyotes in the landscape and should call the Arboretum Ambassador if you feel unsafe. Although seeing them in the daytime is unusual, coyotes typically do not pose a threat to humans. Staff and visitors reported seeing coyotes running through the collections, along the roads, and even peacefully sunning in open areas. Coyote sightings in the landscape increased significantly in September.