Coyote Scat
Scientific Name: Canis latrans (scat)
Category: tracks
Brief Description
Animal droppings consisting of twisted segments, often containing fur, bones, or seeds.
Characteristics
Typically rope-like, tapered at the ends, and containing visible fur or hair. It usually measures 1 inch or less in diameter and 3 to 5 inches in length. In this image, the scat is dark and segmented, resting on gray gravel.
Habitat
Found in diverse environments including forests, deserts, grasslands, and suburban areas.
When to Find It
Year-round; sightings increase during mating season (winter) and when pups are active (spring/summer).
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Provides information about predator diets, territory marking, and aids in seed dispersal for various plant species.
Easily Confused With
Domestic dog waste (usually softer, less tapered, lacks fur/bones) and wolf scat (significantly larger, often over 1 inch in diameter).
Observation Tips
Do not touch or inhale directly; scat can carry parasites like tapeworms. Use a stick to examine contents if necessary for identification.
Interesting Facts
Coyotes use scat to mark their territory, often leaving it in the middle of trails or on prominent objects to ensure their scent is noticed by other animals.
User Notes
Sequim, wa May 2026