Coyote

The coyote is a medium-sized canine native to North America, closely related to the wolf but generally smaller and more slender, with a pointed muzzle, large ears and a bushy, black-tipped tail. It is highly adaptable, thriving in habitats ranging from deserts and prairies to forests and, increasingly, cities and suburbs across the continent, a range that has expanded significantly since European settlement as larger predators such as wolves were eliminated from much of their historic territory. Coyotes are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, fruit and carrion, and they are known for a range of distinctive vocalizations, including yips and howls used to communicate across distances. The species remains widespread and abundant and is classified as being of least concern.