A lazy Coyote in Utah – D200, f9, 1/1500, ISO 400, 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light, not baited
On a chilly March morning I went out looking for birds to photograph on Antelope Island State Park. I wasn’t having much luck in the bird department so I went down the road looking for something to photograph.
I almost missed seeing this Coyote (Canis latrans) and had to back up the vehicle to take a few photos.
The Coyote was laying down on a small hill and at first it barely lifted its head and still appeared to be dozing in the morning sunlight. The Coyote laid there with its eyes barely open for a few frames when another vehicle passed by on the road.
After the vehicle passed the coyote slowly stood up. I missed some shots where the coyote would have been closer because there was a gate to a dirt road between me and the coyote.
So even though I got skunked for photographing birds, I lucked out when I spotted this lazy, or sleepy, Coyote.
Coyotes in my experience are difficult to get close to because people used to shoot them. Some states still allow it.
Coyotes mainly consume small animals and carrion but because they do occasionally kill livestock, pets, and game animals they are considered pests by many.
Me, I still love to see them loping along, wild and free.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Coyote photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great Photo and Story! Love these guys when i get to see them pop by.
Thanks Stu!
hey man, nice blog…really like it and added it to bookmarks. keep up with good work
Good story. We all can benefit from keeping alert to other subjects when the birds aren’t cooperating.
The coyotes here in AZ are a bit more bold; at least they don’t seem as shy as the ones you describe.