Coyotes in Alaska: where to look and what signs to watch for

1. Where are coyotes most likely found in Alaska?

Coyotes are expanding their range in Alaska. They are most common in the Interior (Fairbanks area) and Southcentral (Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula). They also appear along the Denali Highway and in parts of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. You will rarely see them in Southeast Alaska's dense forests or far north of the Brooks Range. Look for them in open areas with a mix of cover: grasslands, river valleys, and the edges of boreal forests. They often den on south-facing slopes or in abandoned fox dens. For more on their relatives, see our /animals/coyote page.

2. When is the best time of day or season to spot coyotes?

Coyotes are most active at dawn and dusk. In Alaska, the long summer days mean they may be seen at any hour, but early morning and late evening still offer the best odds. Winter is actually a great time for spotting because snow makes their dark coats stand out and you can follow fresh tracks. Breeding season (January to March) increases their movement as they search for mates. Late summer and fall, when pups are learning to hunt, can also bring more daytime activity.

3. How can a beginner identify coyote tracks and other signs?

Coyote tracks are smaller than wolf tracks (about 2 to 2.5 inches long) and more oval than dog tracks. The front tracks are slightly larger than the hind. In snow, their stride is about 16 to 20 inches when walking. Look for a straight line of tracks: coyotes tend to walk in a direct register, placing hind feet in front prints. Scat is often twisted, containing hair and berry seeds. Listen for high-pitched howls and yips, especially at dusk. For comparison with similar species, check out our /wildlife/alaska guide.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

4. What do coyotes eat and how does that help you find them?

Coyotes are adaptable eaters. In Alaska, their diet includes small mammals (voles, hares), carrion, berries, and occasionally young deer or moose calves. In summer, they eat a lot of berries: look near blueberry patches or salmonberry thickets. In winter, they patrol areas where moose or carrion may attract them. If you see a carcass, check nearby hillsides for coyote tracks. They also hunt for Arctic ground squirrels in open tundra. Knowing the local food sources can help you pick a spot.

5. Which specific areas in Alaska offer the best coyote sightings?

For reliable sightings, try the following: the Tanana River valley near Fairbanks, the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, Denali National Park (along the park road), and the Matanuska River valley near Palmer. Coyotes also roam the outskirts of Anchorage: check the Campbell Tract or Kincaid Park at dawn. In winter, the frozen rivers of the Interior concentrate prey, making coyote sightings more common. Remember to check local regulations for wildlife viewing.