CritterTrack

Tag: MS-LS2-4

  • Establishing coyote territories and the effects of human impact

    Examine the territories of the coyotes in the Visualizer. Do you think there are physical boundaries that define their territory? Do you think there are social boundaries (interactions with other coyotes or humans) that define the territories? Why might a coyote use a smaller or larger territory than a coyote in a different area? How do coyotes identify their territories or recognize territories of other coyotes? Do coyotes defend their territory?

    If a new road is planned that will bisect one of the coyote territories, how do you think this will impact the coyotes? 

  • What happens if a coyote is killed, dies or is removed?

    What might happen if one coyote or all the coyotes in a territory are “removed” or die? Consider the impact on humans, other coyotes in the area, prey species, etc. If coyotes are eliminated from a territory, do you think the removal would be permanent? What methods can the Illinois Department of Natural Resources use to “eliminate” a coyote?

  • Do coyotes impact other wildlife?

    Do coyotes feed on other animals or insects that homeowners consider to be favorable or unfavorable in their neighborhood? If coyotes establish a new territory, how might they impact the population of prey species? What role do you think regulated hunting and trapping of coyotes could play in maintaining prey populations? How do you think wildlife biologists confirm what coyotes are consuming?