Foxes and coyotes, members of the Canidae family, are pretty common sights in many regions. Though both are wild canines, they come from different branches of the family tree. You might spot one in your backyard or while out on a hike, leading you to wonder, “What was that?”
This guide provides a detailed look at how to tell foxes and coyotes apart. We’ll cover their physical features, behaviors, and other key characteristics that will help you confidently identify each animal.
Both foxes and coyotes are incredibly adaptable, and, as a result, they are increasingly seen in urban environments. And you may be looking for a picture of a coyote vs fox to tell the difference.
Physical Characteristics: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Coyotes and foxes are both members of the Canidae family, but they have some key differences in size, color, and other physical attributes.
Body Size
Generally speaking, coyotes are larger than foxes.
- Coyote size: 3 to 4.5 feet long (over 5 feet if you include the tail); 15 to 50 pounds (7 to 23 kg)
- Fox size: 1 to 3 feet long (around 5 feet with the tail); 2 to 30 pounds (1 to 14 kg)
Eastern coyotes are often larger than their western counterparts, possibly because they’ve interbred with wolves.
Coat Color
Foxes exhibit more color variability than coyotes.
- Fox coat: varies by species but most commonly red, gray, silver, or yellowish-brown. Red foxes have a rusty red back, black ears and lower legs, and a white-tipped tail. Gray foxes have a grizzled gray back and a black stripe on their tail.
- Coyote coat: various shades of gray with some red around the sides. Coyotes can range from gray to a cinnamon gray.
Tail
Foxes tend to have longer, bushier tails than coyotes. Red foxes have a white-tipped tail, and gray foxes have a black stripe on their tail.
Behavioral and Social Differences
Beyond their appearance, foxes and coyotes differ in their social structures, living arrangements, and hunting habits.
Social Behavior
Foxes tend to be solitary creatures, preferring to hunt and live alone. Coyotes, on the other hand, often live and hunt in packs, which allows them to take down larger prey.
Living Arrangements
Both foxes and coyotes create dens for shelter and raising their young.
Foxes have a reputation for cleverness and problem-solving, and some species have even been observed using tools.
Coyotes are also intelligent and adaptable animals, able to thrive in a variety of environments, including urban areas.
Hunting Strategies
Foxes are opportunistic predators, meaning they’ll eat just about anything they can find, from small rodents to insects and fruits.
Coyotes also eat smaller animals, but they’re more likely than foxes to hunt larger prey, such as deer and rabbits, often working together in packs to do so.
Vocalizations and Lifespan
If you hear an animal in the distance, its sounds may help you identify it.
Vocalizations
Coyotes are known for their distinctive howls and yipping. Foxes tend to make higher-pitched whining or yelping sounds.
Lifespan
In the wild, a fox typically lives for 2 to 4 years, while in captivity, they can live for up to 14 years. Coyotes in the wild can live for up to 14 years, and in captivity, that can stretch to 15 years or more.
So, in general, coyotes tend to live a bit longer than foxes do, especially when they’re living in their natural habitat.
Where do they live?
Coyotes are pretty much a North American animal. Foxes, on the other hand, have a much wider range. You can find them in North America, Europe, Asia, and even parts of Africa.
Both of these animals are pretty good at adapting. They can live in forests, grasslands, and even cities.
Here in Massachusetts, we’re mainly talking about how to tell the difference between three wild canine species:
- Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes)
- Gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus)
- Coyotes (Canis latrans)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a gray fox look like a coyote?
While both are canids (members of the dog family), gray foxes and coyotes don’t look very similar. Gray foxes are much smaller, with a bushy tail and a mix of gray, red, and black fur. Coyotes are larger, with a longer snout, and primarily gray or brown fur. Their overall build and size are quite different.
What is the difference between a fox face and a coyote face?
A fox’s face is generally more delicate and pointed, with a narrower muzzle. Their eyes are often more almond-shaped. A coyote’s face is broader and longer, with a more robust snout. Their ears are also typically larger relative to their head size than a fox’s.
What can be mistaken for a coyote?
Depending on the region and coloration, wolves, particularly smaller or younger ones, can sometimes be mistaken for coyotes. Also, coy-dogs (coyote-dog hybrids) can have characteristics that blur the lines, making identification tricky. Large domestic dogs, especially those with a wilder appearance, might also be confused for coyotes at a distance.
How do you tell if it’s a fox or coyote?
Consider the size first. Coyotes are significantly larger than foxes. Look at the tail – foxes have long, bushy tails, while coyotes have thicker tails they usually carry downwards. Observe the face shape – foxes have more delicate, pointed features. Finally, listen to their calls; coyotes have a distinctive howl, while foxes produce a high-pitched bark or scream.
Closing Thoughts
Foxes and coyotes may look similar at first glance, but there are key differences in their size, color, tail, social behavior, and how they communicate. And while you can find coyotes all over North America, foxes live on every continent except Antarctica.
Both foxes and coyotes are highly adaptable creatures. To tell them apart, you need to pay close attention to the details. Next time you see a dog-like animal in the wild, take a closer look. With the information here, you can confidently identify whether it’s a fox or a coyote.