The coyote, Canis latrans, is a highly adaptable canine established throughout the Mountain State. Originally a creature of the western plains, this medium-sized predator has dramatically expanded its range eastward, finding a new home in West Virginia’s diverse landscape. Understanding its history, habitat, and how to safely coexist is necessary for residents.
State Status and History of Arrival
Coyotes are not native to the Appalachian region, but migrated into West Virginia in a range expansion that began in the mid-20th century. The first official state records of a coyote presence appeared around the 1970s, though they did not become commonly observed until the 1990s. This successful eastward movement was facilitated by the near-extinction of larger competitors, such as the timber wolf and mountain lion, which left an ecological niche for the opportunistic coyote to fill.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) currently classifies the coyote as an unprotected species. This classification means they are legally considered a nuisance animal and are subject to year-round hunting and trapping with no daily or seasonal bag limits. This management strategy reflects the perception of coyotes as a threat to livestock and native white-tailed deer populations, though they are now a permanent fixture in the state’s wildlife community.
Where Coyotes Live in West Virginia
Coyotes have demonstrated adaptability, colonizing all 55 counties within West Virginia. While they flourish in the dense, mountainous, and forested terrain typical of the state, their distribution is also heavily influenced by the availability of food. They are habitat generalists, meaning they do not rely on one specific environment to survive.
Their presence extends beyond remote wilderness areas and into agricultural lands, suburban developments, and even the fringes of urban centers. These animals are often drawn to human-modified environments due to reliable food sources, such as abundant rodent populations, deer, and easily accessible garbage or pet food. This broad distribution means almost any resident, regardless of their proximity to a deep forest, may encounter a coyote.
Distinguishing Coyotes from Other Wildlife
Identifying a coyote is important, as they are often mistaken for domestic dogs or native red and gray foxes. The eastern coyote is typically larger than its western counterpart, with adults in the region averaging between 30 and 45 pounds, though they are still significantly smaller than a wolf. Their coat color is generally a grizzled grayish-brown to yellowish-brown, often with darker guard hairs along the back and a black tip on their tail.
A distinguishing feature is the way they carry their tail, which usually hangs low, nearly touching the ground. Their physical profile features a slender, pointed muzzle and large, erect, triangular ears. Their vocalizations are unique, consisting of a chorus of high-pitched yips, barks, and howls that can make a small number of animals sound like a much larger pack.
Living Safely Alongside Coyotes
Coexisting with coyotes requires residents to eliminate attractants near their homes. Securing all outdoor food sources is the most effective preventative measure. This includes storing garbage in sealed containers and bringing pet food dishes inside after use. Coyotes are opportunistic hunters, so small pets like cats and small dogs should be supervised or kept indoors, especially during the peak activity times of dawn and dusk.
If a coyote approaches, reinforcing its natural fear of humans through hazing is necessary. Hazing involves using noise, such as yelling or shaking cans filled with coins, or throwing small objects like tennis balls in the animal’s direction. This action reminds the coyote that proximity to people is undesirable and discourages habituation. If a coyote exhibits overly aggressive behavior, such as approaching pets on a leash or showing no fear of human presence, residents should report the incident to the local DNR office.