"SPIRIT OF THE WEST"

Coyote - 7 Photos

Having seen this young coyote previously only once this Summer, it was wonderful to have an opportunity, albeit brief, to having the opportunity to photograph him. 

I say "him" because of the large head and the very long nose (Photo #1). Both seem to be out of proportion from the body, so I assume there's some growing to take place before reaching full maturity. Definitely born early Spring this year and still retaining some of those fluffy young looks. 

And another addition to the same family as Dash, Scarf and MC (three of last year's pups) - exact same range, hunting area & the distinctive oversized ruff / scarf. Like MC (Mini Coyote), his older sister by a year, he has a tendency to pause in mid action and look intensely up at the sky. I'm not certain whether they are catching a scent or whether they are listening to coyote conversation, inaudible by human ears. (I've included a photo of MC taken this past March, in a similar pose - Photo #7.)

I was fortunate to be pre-occupied and hidden by shrubbery, at the moment he arrived across the creek intent on hunting for rodents. It wasn't until I caught something or someone moving that my attention turned. Luckily, he was already into his pursuits that when we spotted each other (Photo #2 through Photo #5), it wasn't a rapid exit by the coyote.

He continued on for a short period before turning and returning the way he had come (Photo #6).

I like to name the coyotes that I see repeatedly. They can generally be identified by their colourings, looks & habits. The youngsters are the easiest as they frequent areas where food can be found more easily, moving on and further away as they gain more experience. Family members generally stay within their own range, which can be extensive and is fiercely defended.  Because of his youthful appearance and exuberance, I named him "Spirit".

Spirit returned the next day, with another smaller coyote, who I assume is his sister. She might have been smaller but much more aware and cautious. She spotted me almost immediately and then it was a quick turn around and bounded away. Spirit, deeply ensconced in deep grass and hunting pursuits, didn't notice his sister had left but followed immediately once his head briefly appeared above the shrubbery. So no photo opportunities that day.

PHOTO #1

PHOTO #2

PHOTO #3

PHOTO #4

PHOTO #5

PHOTO #6

PHOTO #7 - MC or Mini Coyote, taken March 2025.