Damage Indentification

Livestock losses to predators represent a serious problem to many livestock producers in the United States. The sheep industry is hit hardest by predation, but there are also losses in calves, small pigs, goats and poultry. The single most important predator on livestock is the coyote. In some areas of the country, domestic dogs, mountain lions, bobcats, bears, foxes and eagles cause some livestock losses. After the coyote the next most important predators in Kansas are domestic dogs, while bobcats, foxes and eagles may cause occasional losses.

Coyotes are far from being finicky eaters and will gulp down nearly anything digestible and some things that aren't. Although rodents and rabbits make up the bulk of their menu, coyotes are opportunists and take whatever food is easily obtainable. If the most available item happens to be an unprotected lamb or calf, coyotes may take advantage of the situation. On the other hand, coyotes also readily eat plant foods such as plums, mulberries, pears or watermelons, when they are available.

Most coyotes begin foraging just prior to sunset and continue for several hours after dark. They are again active, to a lesser extent, just before daylight. However, they may forage at any time of the night or day. While foraging and traveling from area to area, coyotes follow roads and trails. They also follow conspicuous features of the landscape such as ridges, draws, fencelines, field borders and windbreaks. A good rule of thumb is that a coyote will follow the easiest path through a particular area.