Wondering where coyotes make their homes? Coyotes live throughout North America, from the frozen tundra of Alaska to the deserts of Mexico, and even in urban cities. They are one of the most adaptable animals in the wild, capable of thriving in almost any environment.
What Types of Habitats Do Coyotes Prefer?
Coyotes can live in nearly every type of habitat, including forests, grasslands, mountains, deserts, swamps, and even busy city neighborhoods. While they were once mostly found in open prairies and plains, they’ve spread into almost every corner of the continent.
Common Coyote Habitats Include:
- Woodlands and forests: Offers dense cover and plenty of prey like rabbits, squirrels, and birds.
- Grasslands and plains: Ideal for hunting and roaming; traditional coyote territory.
- Deserts and scrublands: Coyotes are well-adapted to dry, arid climates with little water.
- Mountains and foothills: Coyotes can survive at various elevations, often in search of food and den sites.
- Wetlands and marshes: Some coyotes thrive near rivers, lakes, or swamps where prey is abundant.
- Urban and suburban areas: Coyotes now live in cities, towns, and rural outskirts, scavenging for food and living near humans.
How Did Coyotes Expand Across the Continent?
Originally, coyotes were found mostly in the central plains and western U.S. But as humans altered landscapes and removed large predators like wolves, coyotes moved into new territories. Today, coyotes are found in all 49 continental U.S. states, most of Canada, and parts of Central America.
This expansion is due to:
- High adaptability to new environments
- Opportunistic diet—they’ll eat almost anything
- Loss of predators like wolves and cougars in many areas
- Fast reproduction—coyotes can quickly repopulate an area
Do Coyotes Live in Cities?
Yes, coyotes live in cities across North America. From Los Angeles and Chicago to New York City, they’ve adapted to urban life. They find shelter in parks, under sheds, in abandoned lots, and even near highways.
Urban coyotes are often:
- More active at night to avoid humans
- Feeding on garbage, pet food, rodents, and small pets
- Raising their pups in quiet, hidden areas like storm drains or wooded green spaces
They’re rarely seen during the day, but urban coyotes are more common than most people realize.
Where Do Coyotes Sleep?
Coyotes sleep in dens, brush piles, tall grasses, or hidden natural areas. They usually avoid exposed places and choose areas that offer protection from predators and the elements.
Types of Coyote Shelters:
- Abandoned burrows: Often taken over from badgers or foxes
- Hollow logs or rock crevices
- Thick shrubs or wooded areas
- Underground dens: Dug into hillsides or riverbanks, especially during pup-rearing season
They don’t use the same den year-round. Coyotes move around frequently to avoid attracting predators and to follow food sources.
Where Do Coyotes Live in Winter?
Coyotes don’t hibernate. They stay active year-round, even in snow and freezing temperatures. In winter, they grow thick coats and may seek denser cover or lower elevations for warmth and easier hunting.
You’ll find them in:
- Forest edges where deer or rodents are common
- Fields and farmlands where carrion or leftover crops are accessible
- Residential outskirts where trash, compost, and pet food can be scavenged
Do Coyotes Live Alone or in Groups?
Coyotes are flexible in their social structure. They may live and hunt alone, in pairs, or as family groups.
- Solitary: Most adult coyotes roam alone outside of breeding season
- Mated pair: Male and female often stay together to raise pups
- Family units: Parents with 3–8 pups may stay together during summer and early fall
Unlike wolves, coyotes don’t usually form large packs, but they do cooperate when raising young or defending territory.
Where Are Coyotes Most Common?
Coyotes are most common in North America, especially in the United States and southern Canada. They’re now found in:
- All lower 48 U.S. states
- Southern parts of Canada (especially Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia)
- Parts of Mexico and Central America
They are one of the most widespread and adaptable predators on the continent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are coyotes only found in the wild?
No. Coyotes live in both wild and urban areas. Many have learned to survive around human activity.
Do coyotes live in every U.S. state?
Yes—except Hawaii. Coyotes are present in all other states, including Alaska and Florida.
Do coyotes migrate?
Not exactly. Coyotes don’t migrate like birds, but they may expand their range or move temporarily to follow food.
What should I do if I see a coyote near my home?
Keep your distance. Don’t feed them, secure trash and pet food, and consider using noise or motion-activated lights to scare them off.
Conclusion: Coyotes Live Almost Everywhere
So, where do coyotes live? Just about everywhere in North America. From forests and deserts to farmland and downtown neighborhoods, coyotes have adapted to nearly every environment. Their resilience and intelligence make them one of the most successful wild animals on the continent.
Want to learn more about coyotes and other adaptable wildlife? Explore our wildlife guides for more fascinating animal facts and behavior insights.