Coyote scat, or droppings, can offer fascinating insights into the diet and behavior of these elusive canids. While not always visually appealing, a closer look at coyote scat, particularly when containing seeds, can reveal valuable information about the local ecosystem and the coyote's foraging habits. This guide will help you identify coyote scat and understand what the presence of seeds signifies.
Identifying Coyote Scat
Distinguishing coyote scat from other animal droppings requires careful observation. Key features include:
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Shape and Size: Coyote scat is typically cylindrical, often tapering at one end. The size can vary depending on the coyote's size and diet, but generally ranges from 1 to 6 inches long and about ½ inch in diameter.
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Color and Texture: The color can vary widely depending on the diet. Fresh scat is typically dark brown or black and moist, while older scat becomes drier and lighter in color, sometimes even grayish. The texture is often somewhat firm, though it can be soft depending on the moisture content.
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Contents: This is where things get interesting! The contents of the scat provide the most valuable clues. Bones, fur, and undigested plant matter are common. The presence and type of seeds are particularly informative, as discussed below.
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Smell: Coyote scat has a distinctive, musky odor, noticeably different from the scent of dog or cat feces.
Coyote Scat with Seeds: What It Means
The presence of seeds in coyote scat indicates that the coyote has been consuming fruits, berries, or other plants containing seeds. This is not uncommon, as coyotes are opportunistic omnivores with diverse diets. Identifying the seeds can provide valuable information about:
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Seasonal Diet: The type of seeds found in the scat can reveal what plants are fruiting or seeding during a particular season. This can be useful for tracking the seasonal changes in the local flora.
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Habitat Preferences: The presence of specific seeds might indicate the areas where the coyote has been foraging. For example, seeds from plants common in riparian zones might suggest the coyote is utilizing those habitats.
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Dietary Flexibility: The inclusion of seeds in their diet demonstrates the adaptability of coyotes, showcasing their ability to supplement their carnivorous diet with readily available plant matter.
Picture Interpretation: What to Look For
When examining pictures of coyote scat containing seeds, pay close attention to:
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Seed Size and Shape: This can aid in identifying the plant species. Compare the seeds to reference images or guides of local flora.
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Seed Abundance: A high concentration of seeds might suggest a recent abundance of a particular plant in the coyote's diet.
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Seed Integrity: The condition of the seeds (whole, crushed, or partially digested) can indicate the level of digestive processing. This might suggest the coyote's overall foraging strategy.
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Surrounding Environment: The surrounding environment depicted in the photo can offer additional context, helping to narrow down the possible plant sources.
Ethical Considerations
Always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife, including coyote scat. Avoid direct contact and practice responsible observation. Never disturb the natural habitat or interfere with the animal's behavior.
Conclusion
Analyzing coyote scat, especially when seeds are present, provides a valuable, non-invasive method to learn about the ecology of a region and the dietary habits of coyotes. By carefully observing and interpreting the contents of the scat, we gain a better understanding of these fascinating and adaptable animals and their role within the ecosystem. Remember to prioritize ethical and responsible wildlife observation practices.
