Coyote Tracks

According to biologist and author Chuck Fergus, writing for the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the eastern coyote (Canis latrans) is found throughout northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. Recent research shows the eastern coyote is an immigrant whose origin may have involved interbreeding between coyotes and gray wolves. Analysis of DNA suggests coyote/wolf hybridization has occurred. Other studies indicate that the eastern coyote is intermediate in size and shape between gray wolves and western coyotes. As a result, the eastern coyote exhibits different behavior, habitat use, pelt coloration, prey preferences and home range sizes from its western cousin.

Today's photo of coyote tracks was taken along the river banks of the WPC-owned parcel at the Sandy Creek confluence by John M. Karian, who does outdoor photography in Venango County.

The Pa. Game Commission Website offers more information on the eastern coyote.

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