Fact brief Do coyotes in urban areas eat trash?

Research has shown that urban coyotes are increasingly reliant on human refuse, with their diets comprising 60% to 75% of garbage, fruits, and domestic cats. Although coyotes naturally prefer small prey such as rabbits and rodents, they adapt to urban settings where wildlife is limited and frequently consume trash. A comprehensive study by the National Park Service and California State University Northridge analyzed coyote scat over five years, revealing a significant presence of undigested fast food wrappers and indicating that up to 38% of their diet is sourced from discarded corn-based products. In suburban areas, however, coyotes consume considerably less garbage, as they have greater access to live prey, which shifts their diet according to seasonal availability. The findings underscore the adaptability of these canines and their opportunistic nature in urban landscapes.

This fact brief serves as a valuable resource, shedding light on the intersection of wildlife behavior and human influence. The collaboration between Fort Worth Report and Gigafact further enhances the credibility of this information, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting on wildlife issues. As urban areas expand, understanding the dietary habits of coyotes becomes crucial for wildlife management and community awareness.