Coyotes in Vermont: where to look and what signs to watch for
Yes, coyotes are a permanent and highly adaptable part of Vermont's wildlife, found in every county from the Green Mountains to the farm valleys. Identifying them requires looking for their dog-like build, bushy tail, and wary behavior. They have successfully filled the niche once occupied by wolves and are a common sight in the state.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 1
- species recorded
- 998
- GBIF records
- March, February, April
- peak months
Yes, coyotes are in Vermont. Next you'll want:
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
1,456 verified observations on iNaturalist of coyote have been recorded in Vermont, most often in March, February, April.
When coyote are recorded in Vermont
Yes, coyotes are a permanent and highly adaptable part of Vermont's wildlife, found in every county from the Green Mountains to the farm valleys. Identifying them requires looking for their dog-like build, bushy tail, and wary behavior. They have successfully filled the niche once occupied by wolves and are a common sight in the state.
1. Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest offers vast tracts of protected forest and rugged terrain that are ideal for coyotes. Their diverse habitats support a healthy coyote population throughout the state. It is a premier location for seeing coyotes in a truly wild and undisturbed setting, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.
2. Champlain Valley
The agricultural lands and forest edges of the Champlain Valley provide excellent foraging grounds for coyotes. They are frequently seen in the open fields and along the margins of the many dairy farms in the region. The valley's diverse landscape offers many opportunities for spotting coyotes as they hunt for a variety of prey.
3. Northeast Kingdom
The remote and rugged Northeast Kingdom is home to a improve coyote population. The area's large blocks of forest and numerous wetlands are ideal habitats. Sightings here are truly wild and often involve seeing coyotes in a vast, untouched landscape. It is a destination for dedicated wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.
4. Mount Mansfield State Forest
The forests surrounding Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, provide high-altitude habitats for coyotes. The area's rugged terrain and open clearings are prime foraging grounds. It is a great location for seeing coyotes in a mountain setting, especially during the winter months when their tracks are easily visible in the snow.
5. Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
The Missisquoi Refuge on the shores of Lake Champlain offers unique wetland and forest habitats where coyotes are frequently seen. The refuge's diverse ecosystems support a variety of prey species, making it a productive hunting ground. It is an excellent location for observing coyotes in a coastal and riverine environment.
How to plan a realistic Vermont coyote trip
A good Vermont coyote plan involves visiting wooded parks and conservation areas during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active. Focus on areas with plenty of cover and nearby open fields for hunting. Be sure to maintain a safe distance and never attempt to feed or approach a coyote. Use theVermont wildlife hubfor more ideas.
What are the characteristics of coyotes in Vermont?
Coyotes in Vermont, often called eastern coyotes, are generally larger than their western counterparts, with adult males weighing 35 to 50 pounds. They have a thick coat of fur that is usually a mix of gray, brown, and tan. Their ears are large and pointed, and they have a bushy tail with a black tip that they carry low. For more details, see ourcoyote guide.
Coyote-themed gifts for nature lovers
If you admire the resilience and intelligence of the coyote, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Coyote Silhouette Ceramic Coffee Mug []() A stylish and functional mug that is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee while thinking about the local wildlife. Check Price and Availability
When is the best time for coyote sightings in Vermont?
Coyotes can be seen year-round in Vermont and do not hibernate. They are especially active and visible during the winter months, which is their peak breeding season. Their thick coats stand out beautifully against the snow. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see them moving between hunting and bedding areas.
Are coyotes in Vermont dangerous?
Coyotes are naturally wary of humans and will generally avoid any contact. Aggressive encounters are extremely rare. However, they can prey on small pets like cats or small dogs if they are left unattended outdoors, especially near natural areas. It is important to keep pets indoors at night and use secure fencing to deter wildlife.
What do coyotes eat in Vermont?
Vermont's coyotes have a varied diet that includes small mammals like mice, rabbits, and squirrels. They also eat fruit, insects, and carrion. In urban and suburban areas, they are opportunistic and will happily eat pet food or garbage if it is left out. They play a vital role in controlling rodent populations across the state.
Gear and field guides
Conservation status, source NatureServe
Conservation rank for coyote (Coyote, Canis latrans), as assessed by NatureServe Explorer.
| Scope | NatureServe rank | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| In Vermont | S5 | Secure |
| Global (rangewide) | G5 | Secure |
NatureServe ranks run from 1 (critically imperiled) to 5 (secure). See our data methodology for how this is sourced.
Plan your trip
Best time to see coyote in Vermont: March, February, April
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your coyote sighting in Vermont
998 verified coyote records have been logged in Vermont, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Vermont
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Marsh - Billings - Rockefeller National Historical Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- North Country National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What are the characteristics of coyotes in Vermont?+
Coyotes in Vermont, often called eastern coyotes, are generally larger than their western counterparts, with adult males weighing 35 to 50 pounds. They have a thick coat of fur that is usually a mix of gray, brown, and tan. Their ears are large and pointed, and they have a bushy tail with a black tip that they carry low. For more details, see ourcoyote guide.
When is the best time for coyote sightings in Vermont?+
Coyotes can be seen year-round in Vermont and do not hibernate. They are especially active and visible during the winter months, which is their peak breeding season. Their thick coats stand out beautifully against the snow. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see them moving between hunting and bedding areas.
Are coyotes in Vermont dangerous?+
Coyotes are naturally wary of humans and will generally avoid any contact. Aggressive encounters are extremely rare. However, they can prey on small pets like cats or small dogs if they are left unattended outdoors, especially near natural areas. It is important to keep pets indoors at night and use secure fencing to deter wildlife.
What do coyotes eat in Vermont?+
Vermont's coyotes have a varied diet that includes small mammals like mice, rabbits, and squirrels. They also eat fruit, insects, and carrion. In urban and suburban areas, they are opportunistic and will happily eat pet food or garbage if it is left out. They play a vital role in controlling rodent populations across the state.
Keep exploring
More places to see coyote
More wildlife in Vermont