Common prey:
* Small mammals: Rabbits, squirrels, mice, voles, gophers, rats. These are the staple of their diet, especially in areas with dense populations of these animals.
* Birds: Ground-nesting birds, chicks, eggs, and occasionally even small birds they can catch.
* Carrion: Roadkill, dead livestock, and other decaying animals provide easy meals and supplement their diet.
* Insects and other invertebrates: Crickets, grasshoppers, beetles, and other insects are especially important during the summer.
Occasional prey:
* Larger mammals: Deer fawns, young livestock (like lambs or calves), and even adult deer (especially if they are weak or injured) are occasionally hunted by coyotes, especially in areas where other food sources are scarce.
* Domestic animals: Coyotes can prey on cats, small dogs, and other domestic animals, particularly if they are not protected or if they wander outside at night.
* Fruit and vegetables: Coyotes will readily eat fruits, berries, and other plant matter when available.
Factors that influence hunting:
* Location: Coyotes living in urban areas may rely more on garbage and pet food, while those in rural areas will focus on wild prey.
* Season: Coyotes' diet varies with the seasons. In the summer, they may eat more insects and berries, while in winter, they may rely more on carrion and larger prey.
* Availability: Coyotes will hunt whatever is most abundant and accessible in their environment.
It's important to remember that coyotes are adaptable animals and their diet can vary significantly depending on their individual needs and the environment they live in.