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

Coyotes live in every county in Virginia, but they prefer habitats that offer cover and prey. Look for them on the edges of farmlands, in overgrown fields, along forest edges, and in large parks. They often use streams and trails as travel corridors. Urban coyotes are common in suburbs with green spaces like golf courses and cemeteries.

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Coyotes are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. However, they can be seen during the day, especially in spring and summer when they are feeding pups. Early morning and late evening light also make spotting easier. Winter months can offer better visibility because leaves are off the trees.

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Coyote tracks are oval, about 2 to 3 inches long, with four toes and visible claw marks. They resemble dog tracks but are usually more elongated and symmetrical. Look for scat filled with fur and seeds, often placed on trails or rocks. Coyote howls are another clue: a series of high-pitched yips and long howls.

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Coyotes are larger than foxes but smaller than wolves. They have a slender build, pointed ears, a narrow muzzle, and a bushy tail that hangs down when running. Gray foxes have a black stripe on the tail, red foxes are rusty red, and wolves are bulkier with broader faces. In Virginia, wolves are extirpated, so most large canids are coyotes or coyote-dog hybrids.

Coyotes eat small mammals like rabbits, mice, and voles, as well as fruits, insects, and carrion. In suburban areas, they may prey on cats and small dogs. Look for coyotes in areas with high rodent activity: overgrown fields, brush piles, and near bird feeders. They also follow deer trails and creek beds.