However, based on various studies and reports, Texas and California are often considered to have the highest coyote populations in the US.
Here's why:
* Texas: Its vast, diverse landscapes and abundant prey make it an ideal habitat for coyotes. Studies have shown exceptionally high coyote densities in certain regions of the state.
* California: Similar to Texas, California's diverse habitats and availability of prey support a large coyote population. Additionally, coyotes have successfully adapted to urban environments in California, further contributing to their numbers.
It's important to remember that coyote populations are also influenced by factors like:
* Hunting and trapping: Legal hunting and trapping efforts can impact coyote populations.
* Habitat availability: Changes in land use and development can influence coyote range and numbers.
* Disease outbreaks: Disease can impact coyote populations, although outbreaks are not typically widespread.
Therefore, while Texas and California are often considered to have the most coyotes, other states with similar landscapes and prey abundance might have similarly large populations.