What does a coyote bite mark look like?

Canine Teeth: Look for punctures from the animal’s canine teeth. Coyote canine teeth are typically longer and pointier than those of domestic dogs.

Size: Coyote bite marks are usually smaller than those of wolves or mountain lions. The average canine tooth length for coyotes is 0.75 inches (1.9 cm), while for wolves it is 1.5–2.25 inches (3.8–5.7 cm), and for mountain lions it is 2.62–3.75 inches (6.7–9.5 cm).

Spacing: The spacing between coyote canine teeth punctures are usually closer together than those of domestic dogs. The average spacing between canine teeth punctures for coyotes is 0.5–1 inches (1.3–2.5 cm), while for domestic dogs it is 1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.8 cm).

Depth: Coyote bite marks are typically shallower than those of wolves or mountain lions. The average bite depth for coyotes is 0.25–0.5 inches (0.63–1.27 cm), while for wolves it is 0.5–1 inches (1.3–2.5 cm), and for mountain lions it is 1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.8 cm).

Shape: Coyote bite marks are often oval or elliptical in shape.

Location: Coyote bites are most often found on the limbs, face, or neck of the victim.