The coyote (Canis latrans) is a highly adaptable canid that has successfully colonized almost every habitat type across North America, from deserts and forests to urban centers. This widespread presence often sparks curiosity about their daily lives and, specifically, the type of shelter they use. Understanding a coyote’s habitat selection provides insight into their survival strategies in diverse environments.
Coyote Denning Behavior
Coyotes use underground shelters, or dens, but this behavior is not continuous throughout the year. The use of a den is a temporary, seasonal activity, which differentiates them from animals that live permanently underground. Their dens are simple, covered structures—either a short burrow or a naturally protected space—that serve a highly specialized purpose.
The Purpose of a Coyote Den
The primary reason coyotes utilize a den is for reproduction and raising their young. Following a gestation period of 62 to 65 days, the female gives birth to a litter typically consisting of four to seven pups inside the protected space. The den functions as a fortified nursery, providing warmth and defense for the pups during their most vulnerable stage of development.
During the spring and early summer denning season, the den is the focal point of the family’s activities. The young pups remain within the den for the first six weeks of their lives, depending completely on the parents for protection and sustenance. To ensure safety and prevent the buildup of parasites, the mother may relocate the pups between several pre-established dens within their territory. Once the pups are mature enough to travel and begin venturing out, usually by mid-summer, the family abandons the den structure entirely.
How Coyotes Acquire Their Dens
Coyotes are opportunistic and resourceful when securing a suitable den site, often choosing to modify existing structures rather than digging a new burrow. They frequently enlarge and repurpose burrows previously excavated by other animals, such as badgers, woodchucks, or foxes. The female typically selects the location, favoring concealed areas like thick brush, rocky hillsides, or even man-made structures like drainage culverts or spaces beneath sheds.
If a suitable pre-existing hole cannot be found, the pair will excavate a new den, which can be a shared effort between the male and female. These dug dens usually consist of a tunnel leading to an enlarged chamber, often situated three to six feet below the surface for insulation and protection. The entrance is often situated in a protected spot, such as under a tree stump or rock outcropping, or concealed by dense vegetation to maximize security.
Year-Round Coyote Shelter
Outside of the few months dedicated to raising pups, coyotes adopt a nomadic lifestyle and do not inhabit underground dens. They seek out simple, temporary shelters, often called “beds,” which may consist of thick brush, tall grass, or rock crevices that offer concealment from the elements and predators.
A coyote’s choice of resting spot is constantly changing based on weather, hunting patterns, and the need for security. In warmer months, they might rest in shaded areas to stay cool, while in winter, they may seek out protected spots under evergreen boughs or overhangs to escape the wind.