Whether you have seen them or not, coyotes are all around us. Once restricted to the American southwest and parts of Mexico, they can now be found in every US state except Hawaii.They thrive in deserts, icy northern woodlands, and even the tropical forests of Central America. Perhaps even more impressively, they have found a home in the heart of many of our largest cities, including LA, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. At the same time, coyotes are the most hunted predator animal in North America. In most states there are no restrictions on when or how coyotes may be killed, and every year half a million coyotes die at the hands of humans. So how did we get here? How did one of the most hated animals in the US become so successful in the face of 100 years of attempted eradication? And how did we as a society come to the conclusion that they should be eradicated in the first place?
To answer these questions, we will first dive into the history of human and coyote interaction, starting with Native American mythology and branching out into European stories about wolves. We will discuss how these ancient stories have shaped our modern understanding of the coyote. There will then be a short break for questions before we move onto the second part of the presentation which will revolve around the coyote itself; its biology, its natural history, and its role in the ecosystem. I will also attempt to dispel some common misconceptions regarding coyotes and suggest some ways our two species can better co-exist.
Photo credit: Cindy Goeddel
Please note that this event will be held in the regular zoom meeting format, not presentation mode. Therefore, all participants will be on screen and have the ability to interact with the speaker and other attendees during the meeting.
*Registration closes July 21, 2021
* All programs are subject to change based on unforseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email and phone call if there are any program changes or cancellations.
United States