How Fast Can Coyotes Run at Top Speed?
Contents
Coyotes are easy to mistake for dogs. Have you ever wondered whether you could outrun one, or how high your fence needs to be to keep them out? Coyotes learn quickly that people often mean easy food.
They raid garbage and may attack unprotected pets, which raises the question, "How fast can coyotes run?"
How Fast Can a Coyote Run?
Like the cartoon character Wile E. Coyote, real coyotes are agile and fast. According to SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), a coyote may reach 35 to 43 mph (56 to 69 km/h) when running.
That is a short sprint, not a cruising speed. Over longer distances, coyotes slow down to a steady trot.
Speed and stamina help them chase prey such as rabbits and hares, and even deer. Coyotes are skilled, adaptable hunters that use both speed and stealth.
Coyotes (Canis latrans) are close relatives of gray wolves and domestic dogs. They are faster than most dog breeds and can be a real threat to small pets.
They are highly adaptable and have spread across North America. ESF lists their range from northern Alaska south to Costa Rica, and coyotes now live in many cities, including New York City.
Top Height a Coyote Can Jump
Coyotes are strong jumpers and climbers. They can clear many backyard fences, especially low ones, and some will climb chain-link fences.
A tall fence helps, but it isn't a guarantee. The best protection is to keep small pets indoors or supervised, especially at dawn, dusk and night.
Don't leave pet food, garbage or fallen fruit outside, since food draws coyotes into yards.
Coyote's Top Speed
Coyotes hit their top speed only in short bursts while chasing prey or escaping danger. For longer trips, they trot, which lets them cover many miles a night while hunting.
Coyote vs. Domestic Dog Breeds
Coyotes are faster than most domestic dog breeds. At 35 to 43 mph, they outrun the average pet dog easily.
Sighthounds such as Greyhounds, Salukis and Whippets are the fastest dogs and can match or beat a coyote in a straight sprint. Most other breeds, including popular working and herding breeds, are slower.
Speed varies with the individual animal, its age and its condition.
Greyhound vs. Coyote
Greyhounds are the classic racing breed, which the American Kennel Club calls "the champion sprinter of dogdom." In a straight sprint, a fit Greyhound can often outrun a coyote.
In a real chase over rough ground, though, a coyote's agility and stamina may give it the edge.
Coyotes vs. Human Beings
You can't outrun a coyote. Even elite sprinters top out below a coyote's speed.
Coyote attacks on people are rare. If you meet a coyote that doesn't leave, don't run. Instead, haze it:
- Do not run: Running can trigger a chase. Stand your ground and stay calm.
- Make noise: Shout, clap your hands, or use a whistle or air horn.
- Appear larger: Raise and wave your arms.
- Keep watching it: Keep your eyes on the coyote so it doesn't approach from behind.
- Back away slowly: If it still doesn't leave, back away slowly while facing it. Don't turn your back and run.
Pick up small children and small pets, and keep dogs on a leash in coyote areas.
Conclusion
Coyotes can sprint at about 35 to 43 mph in short bursts, then settle into a trot over longer distances. They can get over many fences and may attack small pets.
Keep pets supervised, remove food sources, and never run from a coyote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a coyote outrun a wolf?
Coyotes and wolves have similar top speeds. A wolf is bigger and stronger, while a coyote is lighter and more nimble, so the outcome depends on the animals and the ground.
Can a coyote outrun a deer?
Usually not. A healthy adult deer is fast and can outrun a coyote. Coyotes more often catch fawns or weak, sick or injured deer, sometimes working in pairs or packs.
Can a coyote outrun a German Shepherd?
Usually, yes. A coyote's top speed of 35 to 43 mph is faster than a German Shepherd's.
