1. Mountain Lions – Silent and Deadly
Mountain lions, or cougars, are stealthy ambush predators and can easily overpower a coyote. These big cats are territorial and have been known to kill coyotes that wander too close. Coyotes avoid mountain lions whenever possible, as a single swipe from a cougar’s paw can be fatal.
2. Bears – The Forest Giants
Bears are among the largest predators in North America, and their sheer size and power make them intimidating to coyotes. While bears generally aren’t interested in hunting coyotes, a territorial bear will defend its food or cubs fiercely. Coyotes know better than to test a bear’s patience.
3. Wolves – The Apex Predator of the Pack
Wolves are larger, stronger, and often hunt in packs, making them a serious threat to coyotes. If a coyote comes across a wolf or a pack, it usually makes a quick retreat. Wolves don’t typically tolerate coyotes in their territory and may even kill them if they get too close.
4. Bobcats – Fierce Felines With Attitude
Although smaller than mountain lions, bobcats are powerful hunters and quite aggressive when cornered. Coyotes tend to avoid them, as bobcats can be territorial and will defend their space if a coyote intrudes. Coyotes recognize bobcats as a threat, especially when they’re defending their young or territory.
5. Elk – The Formidable Herbivore
Elk are large and capable of defending themselves with powerful kicks. Coyotes may sometimes target young or injured elk, but they’re cautious around healthy adults. A defensive elk can inflict serious injury with its hooves and antlers, making coyotes think twice before approaching.
6. Moose – Massive and Aggressive
Moose are the largest members of the deer family, and their size alone makes coyotes wary. A full-grown moose can weigh over a thousand pounds and is highly defensive, especially around calves. With strong legs and sharp hooves, a moose can deliver a lethal blow to any would-be predator.
7. American Alligators – River Ambushers
In regions like the southeastern United States, coyotes might come across American alligators near bodies of water. Alligators are ambush predators, and if a coyote ventures too close, it risks a sudden, powerful bite. Coyotes usually stay far from water where alligators might be lurking.
8. Bald Eagles – Aerial Predators With Powerful Talons
Bald eagles, while not a direct threat to adult coyotes, can pose a danger to pups or injured individuals. With their keen eyesight and powerful talons, eagles have been known to snatch small animals. Coyotes are cautious around bald eagles, especially near nesting sites, as eagles are highly territorial and aggressive defenders.
9. Domestic Dogs – The Rival Predator
Coyotes and dogs are often rivals, especially if the dogs are large or in groups. Breeds like Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherds are trained to guard livestock and are fearless against coyotes. Coyotes are generally wary of these guardian dogs, especially when they’re protecting their home turf.
10. Bison – The Powerful Herd Animal
Bison are massive, with horns and a powerful build that make them more than capable of defending themselves. While coyotes don’t typically hunt large bison, they may attempt to go after young or weak individuals. However, bison herds are very protective, and a single defensive charge can send a coyote running.
11. Badgers – Small but Ferocious
Coyotes sometimes form hunting partnerships with badgers, but if they come across one unexpectedly, they know to keep their distance. Badgers have powerful claws, a fierce temperament, and a reputation for standing their ground. Coyotes are careful around badgers, respecting their strength and defensive capabilities.
12. Porcupines – The Quill-Covered Defense
Porcupines aren’t large or fast, but their sharp quills make them a formidable challenge for coyotes. A curious or hungry coyote can end up with a painful mouthful of quills if it tries to attack a porcupine. Most coyotes have learned to avoid these prickly animals entirely.
13. Humans – The Top Predator
Coyotes are naturally wary of humans, who are among the few creatures they actively avoid. Human presence, sounds, and even scents are usually enough to send a coyote running. In urban or rural areas, coyotes are especially cautious, knowing humans can pose a serious threat to them.
