I’ve chosen bursts of still-shots over a video for this post — this allows time to stop and savor each moment during an activity which was moving along so quickly!
Dispersed coyotes often become transients and loners, living on the margins, fringes and interstices of other coyotes’ territories. They are alone with no family to socialize with. They often get bored and lonely — but this one is havin’ a ball!
For entertainment, and to break the boredom and loneliness of a single’s existence, coyotes often engage in innovative play, including with found objects, such as poop-bags, crackling water-bottles or boxes, sticks, or even, as here, with a found ball! In the wild, without a ball to be had, coyotes toy with their prey in this exact same manner.
Playing hones fine skills and judgements, which could come in handy at some point. Innovative play helps the mind and body develop, and may help problem solving in the future, according to behaviorists.
Might it be that she was playing up to the several people who had gathered to watch — actually performing for them? They were thrilled, and she continued, only stopping when everyone had left (it was a workday, these were people on their way to work).
Coyote Yipps 
Aug 19, 2017 @ 02:17:10
Just gorgeous – I had a smile on my face enjoying each still. Thank you for sharing Janet!
Aug 19, 2017 @ 04:36:34
Hi Heather — I had the same smile on my face as I shot the photos! It was pure joy watching this coyote play! :)
Aug 25, 2017 @ 07:25:42
Ah, this was delightful to watch! And an excellent description of why play is so vital for humans and animals alike.
I also enjoy that you posted these in still-shots – really gives the viewer a chance to appreciate and savor the little nuances. Well done, and thanks for posting!