Den digging and pup care in captive coyotes ( Canis latrans )

Abstract

Captive coyotes were studied for den digging and use (N = 10) and pup care activities (N = 4 adults and 2 yearlings). Method of construction and configuration of dens is described. Pup care activities of individual pack members are documented, including: den tending, ano-genital grooming, nursing, feeding solid food, transferring pups between dens, and alarm barking. It is suggested that endogenous factors be considered in addition to environmental causes for the phenomenon of multiple den use and frequent transferral of pups which may have evolved as a method of decreasing the risks of pup predation.