Are there coyote-like animals that serve as predator-scavengers in the other deserts on continents?

You're right to think of coyotes as filling a crucial niche in deserts! While coyotes themselves are specific to North America, there are indeed similar predator-scavengers in other deserts around the world, often filling a similar ecological role. Here are a few examples:

Africa:

* African Wild Dog: These highly social canids are found in open savannas and semi-deserts. They are apex predators, hunting in packs, but will also scavenge when opportunities arise.

* Black-backed Jackal: These canids are opportunistic scavengers, often feeding on carrion left by larger predators. They are found in a wide range of habitats, including deserts.

* Spotted Hyena: Though often portrayed as scavengers, spotted hyenas are actually highly skilled hunters, taking down large prey. They are also opportunistic scavengers, playing a vital role in cleaning up carcasses in African ecosystems.

Asia:

* Dhole (Asian Wild Dog): Like African wild dogs, dholes are highly social, cooperative hunters found in forested and open habitats, including semi-deserts.

* Golden Jackal: These canids are found in a wide range of habitats, including deserts, and are known for their adaptability and scavenging abilities.

* Wolf: In some Asian deserts, wolves have adapted to survive, filling a similar niche to coyotes.

* Sand Fox: This small canid is found in the deserts of Central Asia, and is a skilled hunter and scavenger.

Australia:

* Dingo: These feral dogs are now considered native to Australia, and play a significant role in the ecosystem as predators and scavengers.

* Red Fox: Introduced to Australia, red foxes are now widespread and have had a significant impact on native wildlife. They are highly adaptable and opportunistic, both predators and scavengers.

South America:

* Maned Wolf: This long-legged canid lives in open grasslands and scrublands, including semi-deserts. They are primarily hunters but will scavenge.

* Bush Dog: Found in the Amazon rainforest and adjacent areas, bush dogs are social canids that hunt and scavenge in packs.

* Culpeo Fox: These foxes inhabit a variety of habitats, including deserts, and are known to be opportunistic hunters and scavengers.

Key Characteristics of These Animals:

* Adaptability: They thrive in harsh, unpredictable environments, often with limited food sources.

* Opportunism: They readily switch between hunting and scavenging depending on the availability of food.

* Sociality: Many of these animals are social, allowing them to hunt larger prey and efficiently compete for resources.

It's important to note that these are just a few examples, and many other species across these continents contribute to the predator-scavenger role in desert ecosystems.