Research conducted by the University of New Hampshire has provided insight into the factors influencing coyote populations across diverse habitats, including human development, hunting, and competition with larger carnivores. Surprisingly, the study found that human hunting practices may actually contribute to an increase in coyote numbers in certain areas. The study, published in the journal Ecography, utilized data from over 4,500 cameras set up across the United States by the Snapshot USA project, combined with satellite-derived habitat metrics and advanced modeling techniques. This allowed the researchers to evaluate the effects of various environmental pressures on coyote populations and gain a clearer understanding of how coyotes respond to these pressures.
The study found that promoting the recovery of larger carnivores, such as black bears and pumas, may be more effective in reducing coyote numbers than direct hunting of coyotes. The presence of larger carnivores influenced coyote numbers in a habitat-dependent manner, with black bears having a stronger limiting effect on coyotes in forested areas and pumas exerting a similar influence in more open environments. Coyote abundance was found to be highest in grasslands and agricultural landscapes, where prey and shelter are plentiful. Urbanization was shown to impact coyote populations differently depending on the scale, with smaller urban developments reducing coyote numbers due to increased human presence and habitat fragmentation, while larger suburban areas provided fragmented habitats and edges that allowed coyote populations to thrive.
The study also revealed significant regional variation in coyote populations across the United States, with higher numbers in the southwestern U.S. and lower populations in the northeast. This variation reflects the diverse ecological and geographical factors at play in different regions. The research, one of the largest-scale studies of coyote populations to date, provides valuable information for both conservation efforts and coyote management. By mapping out coyote abundance across the country, researchers hope to better understand and address the complex dynamics shaping coyote populations and their interactions with humans and other carnivores.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of considering the interactions between different species and environmental factors when managing wildlife populations. By understanding how coyotes respond to various pressures, such as human hunting practices and competition with larger carnivores, researchers can develop more effective strategies for conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. The research was funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the National Science Foundation, the NH Agricultural Experiment Station, and the state of New Hampshire, as well as additional support from various institutions and collaborative efforts. By shedding light on the factors influencing coyote populations, this study contributes valuable insights to the field of wildlife ecology and conservation.