Coyote

Coyote
(larger image)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora Family: Canidae Genus: Canis[?] Species: latrans[?]

A mammal (Canis latrans) that is a member of the Canidae family and a relative of the domestic dog. The word "coyote" is of Nahuatl origin.

Coyotes are only found in North America.

Coyotes may occasionally assemble in small packs, but normally hunt alone.

Despite being extensively hunted, the coyote is one of the few medium-to-large-sized animals that has enlarged its territory since human encroachment began (another is the raccoon). Coyotes have moved into most of the areas of North America formerly occupied by wolves, and the "dog" you see scrounging from a suburban trashcan may in fact be a coyote.

Character in mythology

There are many North American stories about Coyote, who is seen as the trickster.