Coyote Condition and Reproduction in Response to a Reduction in Population Density

Abstract

Four 5000-ha sites located in Andrews County, Texas, were studied during 1990-1992 to determine the effect of coyote (Canis latrans) population reduction on coyote physical characteristics, body condition, and reproduction. Seasonal coyote removal on two sites reduced coyote density from an estimated 0.12 to 0.06 coyotes km^-2. Coyote density remained stable on the other two sites throughout the study. Coyote removal did not create a change in coyote physical characteristics or body condition. Fetal sex ratios appeared to favor males at higher population densities. After about 9 moths of coyote removal, a greater percentage of juvenile females from the experimental areas exhibited higher counts of corpora lutea and resorption placental scars. However, due to the higher resorption rate, juvenile females from the experimental areas minimally contributed to coyote population density. Adult female reproduction appeared unaffected by coyote removal.