Coyotes were found only in the Great Plains and western areas until relatively recently. Our coyotes are larger than their western kin, due in part to hybridizing with timber wolves in Canada and domestic dogs when they first settled into new country. The size and weight of coyotes, however, are commonly over-estimated, most likely because their long fur masks a relatively light bone structure. A coyote weighing 35 pounds will appear much heavier to the inexperienced eye. Adults weigh 20 to 40 pounds, with males weighing more than females.
Coyotes look somewhat like a slender German shepherd.
Key features include a pointed snout and erect, pointed ears along with a bushy tail. They are normally tawny gray with black-tipped fur on the head, back and tail. Some coyotes appear lighter, with a few individuals being yellow and gray. Two other common features are a shoulder saddle of longer black-tipped hairs and a black spot part way down the top of the tail. Most breeding occurs in February, with pups being born in April.