This is a father coyote who absolutely indulges his offspring. He grooms them, shows them affection, cuddles with them, brings them food, plays with them, keeps a watchful eye out for their safety. You name it, and he’s there for them. His attention and care appear limitless.
Well, almost limitless. Dad here has wandered from the group and appears to have found something to nibble on. Overwhelming curiosity, and maybe the hope that Dad might share, draw a youngster towards Dad. The youngster approaches slowly, carefully and ever so non-threateningly — as though, maybe, all he really wants is a “peek” at what Dad has there.
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- youngster approaches
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- Dad glares at intruder
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- A glare isn’t enough — shows teeth
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- Showing teeth isn’t enough — he snarles
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- Youngster isn’t listening
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- Dad finally snaps at the youngster
Ahh! Enough is enough. Dad knows this trick and tells the youngster to “bug off!” Maybe the message wasn’t as clear as it could have been. The youngster actually tries one more time to stick its nose into Dad’s business, but this time, Dad charges the youngster with teeth bared and snaps. The message this time is clear: the youngster responds by laying down far enough away so as not to be a bother. Even though the youngster didn’t go far, he did remain lying down — it was obviously a position of acquiescence.
Ahh! An acceptable distance is established
Jan 16, 2014 @ 22:54:34
These are wonderful photos. You must love where you live! How great to be able to watch these coyotes so often.
Jan 17, 2014 @ 03:37:54
Glad you like the photos! Yes, I’m lucky to live in San Francisco, where, throughout our 49 square miles, we have a number of coyote families!