Most people recognize coyotes by their eerie howls and high-pitched yips echoing through the night. But they also make other sounds—including growls. So, do coyotes growl? Yes, they do. Growling is part of a coyote’s vocal communication, especially in tense or defensive situations.
In this article, we’ll explain when and why coyotes growl, what their growls sound like, and how to tell them apart from similar animal vocalizations.
Do Coyotes Growl?
Yes, coyotes growl—especially during close-range confrontations, fights, or when defending themselves or their territory. Growling is not their most common sound, but it plays a key role in their social and defensive behavior. It’s a low, guttural sound used to show aggression, fear, or dominance.
Growling is usually reserved for moments of stress, such as:
- Territorial disputes with other coyotes
- Protecting pups from predators
- Feeling cornered or threatened by humans or dogs
What Does a Coyote Growl Sound Like?
Coyote growls are deep, raspy, and short. They don’t have the high-pitched or echoing quality of howls. Instead, they sound more like low snarls or muffled rumbling noises. You’ll usually hear growling just before a bark or a lunge in aggressive encounters.
Some people confuse coyote growls with dog growls. While similar, coyote growls tend to be:
- Shorter and more abrupt
- Less “throaty” than a domestic dog’s growl
- Combined with other sounds like barks, yips, or whines
Why Do Coyotes Growl?
Like many mammals, coyotes use growling as a warning. It’s a signal that says, “Back off.” Here’s when and why they use it:
1. Defense
When threatened by larger predators or people, coyotes may growl as a last warning. This often comes with bared teeth and tense body posture.
2. Protecting Pups
Parent coyotes will growl to defend their dens. This happens most often in spring and early summer when pups are still small and vulnerable.
3. Dominance Displays
Within a coyote pack, growling can establish hierarchy. Males may growl to settle disputes or challenge for dominance over food or mates.
4. Territorial Boundaries
Growling may occur when rival coyotes or strange animals enter a claimed area. It can escalate into barking, yipping, or physical conflict.
Coyote Sounds Compared
| Sound | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Growl | Low, rough rumble | Warning, defense, dominance |
| Bark | Sharp, loud | Alert, fear response |
| Howl | Long, echoing | Communication over distance |
| Yip | High-pitched, short | Social, playful, excitement |
| Whine | Soft, nasal | Submissive or distress signal |
Are Coyote Growls Dangerous?
A coyote growl is a clear warning sign—do not ignore it. It means the animal feels threatened or is protecting something important. If you hear a growl:
- Remain calm and don’t run
- Make yourself appear large and back away slowly
- Do not approach or challenge the animal
Growling often comes just before more aggressive behavior. While coyotes usually avoid humans, they can defend themselves fiercely if cornered or protecting young.
How to Avoid Triggering a Growl
Most growling can be avoided with awareness and respect for wildlife space. Here are some tips:
- Keep your distance—especially during spring denning season
- Don’t feed wild coyotes or leave food out for pets
- Leash dogs during hikes or walks
- Stay alert at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active
Conclusion
Yes, coyotes growl—and when they do, they mean business. Growling is their way of showing discomfort, asserting dominance, or defending territory. While it’s not their most common sound, it’s important to understand what it means and how to respond if you hear it.
By learning their sounds and respecting their space, we can safely coexist with these intelligent and adaptable predators.