• small, dog-like, looks like a cross between a fox and a German Shepherd

• average weight - 9-14 kg

• length - 0.75 m - 1 m

• coats are generally brown; some with reddish tinges

• has a bushy tail that is 30 - 40 cm long, with a distinctive black tip

• yellow eyes that help them see well in low light

• ears are large for their body size

• have a distinctive, quick gait, and run with their tail down; can run at speeds up to 64 km/hour for short distances.

What do coyotes eat?

Coyotes are carnivores. Their diet consists primarily of small mammals -- mostly rabbits, but also mice, rats, shrews, voles, and racoons. They will also eat household pets such as cats and small dogs. They eat bird eggs, fruits and berries in season, and garbage.

Getting along with coyotes

Coyotes are part of our urban wildlife. The best strategy seems to be to try and get along with them. While coyotes are relatively new to the Lower Mainland, cities such as Calgary and Los Angeles have had coyotes for many years. Some cities have tried extensive poisoning or trapping/relocation programs, with limited success.

Here are some strategies for co-existing with coyotes:

• Don't approach or feed coyotes
• Secure your property
• Clean up your compost
• Don't store food outside
• Clean up around bird feeders
• Clean up fallen fruit
• Keep pets on a leash, in your enclosed property, or inside your home, especially at night

Article by City of Vancouver Parks Board