This Has to Be New York’s Most Unique Coyote
Have you been checking your trail cameras around New York State this summer? It’s one of the best parts of the offseason, watching the incredible variety of wildlife that wanders past the camera. But look closely, you never know what you might capture, including some very unique coyotes.
Trail Cameras Have Changed the Way We Hunt
Technology has completely transformed the way many of us hunt. Years ago, scouting meant spending hours in the woods looking for deer sign, doing a little evening spotlighting, and sitting in a tree stand hoping to learn what bucks were using your property.
Today, trail cameras and cellular cameras do much of that work for us. Before hunting season even begins, the buck you’re hoping to harvest has probably already been photographed, shared on social media, and seen by half the hunters in the neighborhood.
A Coyote Unlike Any I’ve Seen
The same technology we use to scout deer also gives us a glimpse into what happens in the woods when we’re not around. In fact, as I’m writing this, I’m getting notifications from one of my trail cameras deep in our backwoods.
Related: Major Hunting License Change Starts This Fall in New York
Recently, I reviewed footage of a coyote walking past one of my cameras, and it immediately caught my attention. This animal looked exceptionally tall, lean, and athletic.
I’m certainly not a wildlife biologist, but I spend a lot of time outdoors observing wildlife. This coyote stood out as one of the most unique I’ve ever seen in our area.
Coyotes Continue To Spark Debate Among Hunters
Coyotes always seem to generate discussion among hunters. Many believe they pose a significant threat to deer fawns, wild turkeys, and other wildlife. Others point out that predators play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Related: Is This A Wolf or Coyote Howling in WNY?
Most wildlife biologists agree that maintaining a balanced relationship between predators and prey is essential for healthy wildlife populations.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation works to maintain that balance through hunting seasons, regulations, and conservation efforts. The DEC’s role is not only to enforce wildlife laws but also to ensure New York’s natural resources remain healthy for future generations.
What’s Showing Up on Your Trail Cameras?
What have you been seeing on your trail cameras this summer? Have you noticed more predators? Are you starting to capture photos of fawns, poults, or other young wildlife?
Keep checking those cameras. You never know what might walk by next, and you just might capture something you’ve never seen before.