The Differences Between Foxes and Coyotes: Urban Canids Urban environments often host more wildlife than we realize, including fascinating creatures like foxes and coyotes. While these two animals are frequently confused, they have notable differences.
Physical Differences Foxes, particularly red foxes, are smaller and sleeker than coyotes. A fox has a bushy tail that often appears lifted in a “proud” manner, whereas coyotes hold their tails lower. Foxes also have a more playful gait, characterized by prancing. Red foxes are common in urban areas across North America and often weigh between 5 and 31 pounds. They have a distinctive reddish-brown coat with black markings on their legs and white tips on their tails. In contrast, coyotes are much larger, ranging from 25 to 50 pounds, and their coats are typically gray or rust-colored with longer legs.
Behavioral Traits Both foxes and coyotes are flexible hunters, consuming small rodents, birds, and even human food scraps when in urban settings. However, foxes are typically solitary hunters, while coyotes are known to travel in packs. Coyotes communicate more vocally than foxes, with loud howling and yipping often heard in rural and suburban areas.
Impact on Urban Life Urban sightings of foxes and coyotes often lead to concern, especially for pet owners. While foxes generally avoid human interaction, coyotes are more social and may venture closer to homes in search of food. Yet, both species are vital to controlling rodent populations. Foxes and coyotes rarely pose a threat to humans, and proper precautions, like securing pets and installing fencing, can prevent conflicts.
In summary, though both foxes and coyotes share habitats, their size, appearance, and behaviors set them apart. Recognizing these differences allows us to appreciate these fascinating creatures as part of the urban ecosystem.