Wolf/coyote?

Jesse lackey

New member
I have been finding some very large coyote tracks near where I live. They are never out in the open, and usually in low spots, or on extremely thick cover. only once have I seen a coyote big enough to make the tracks, and he was on the other side of the holler from me, and he didn't hang around for long. Judging by the tracks, and the one I saw, I would say he's around 50-60 lbs. That's a huge coyote for anywhere in the country, but unheard of around here. My question is that I have heard rumors that red wolfs released in Texas have been breeding with coyotes, and making giant coyotes. From what I've found, wildlife biologists say its not true, but I wanted to get the opinion of the guys who spend their time in the woods, rather than behind a desk. What I have seen wasn't as big as the Timber Wolfs that I have seen in northern michigan, but it certainly wasn't the size of our coyotes around here.
 
Leon not to be a smart a**, but I know the difference between coyote, and dog tracks, definitely not a dog. I also got a pretty good look at it.
 
I'm not trying to be a smart azz either, but I'd like to see pics showing the difference between the tracks of a feral dog and a coyote (and a wolf).

Other than the overall size, sometimes a very slight difference in toe width (all toes the same, outer toes bigger, inner toes bigger), and the difference in groomed and untrimmed claws (doesn't apply to feral dogs for sure), I darned sure can't easily tell the difference.
 
Well, since we don't get much snow here, it will be tough, but I will do my best to find some fresh tracks, and get some pics, to point out just how I tell the difference.
 
Jesse, my wife and i saw the biggest yote i've ever seen about 1/2 way between my house and yours. trotted across a dirt road right in front of us in broad daylight. in a very secluded area that you may be familiar with. we both got a good look at it and it was bigger than any yote i ever saw around here. i also have a freind who told me about a huge one in the Tenkiller area. maybe they're crossed with something, i dont know, but those two were BIG!

i'll PM you the details
 
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Coyote tracks have a very distinctive look, especially on a fresh track. The only domestic dog print I've seen that is similar enough to cause confusion is a greyhound/staghound and even then, there are distinctions. Maybe there are other breeds/types that are close, but for me, I've never seen a domestic dog with as thin and sharp, spaded foot as the "average" coyote.
 
Couldn't agree more workman.

Luke, thanks for the info. I'm glad to here I'm not the only one. Next time I find his track, I'm gonna put the hounds on him, and we will see if he stinks like a coyote.
 
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