What type of teeth does a coyote have?

Coyotes, like other canids, have heterodont dentition, meaning they have different types of teeth for different functions:

* Incisors: These are the small, sharp teeth at the front of the mouth, used for biting and grooming.

* Canines: These are the long, pointed teeth located behind the incisors. They are the most powerful teeth and used for tearing and holding prey.

* Premolars: These are the teeth located behind the canines, with sharp cusps for shearing and grinding food.

* Molars: These are the flat, broad teeth at the back of the mouth, used for crushing and grinding food.

Coyotes have a total of 42 teeth:

* 6 incisors on each side of the upper and lower jaw (12 total)

* 2 canines on each side of the upper and lower jaw (4 total)

* 8 premolars (4 on each side, upper and lower)

* 6 molars (3 on each side, upper and lower)

These specialized teeth allow coyotes to efficiently hunt and eat a variety of prey, from small rodents to larger animals like deer.