Population characteristics of coyotes (Canis latrans) in the northern Chihuahuan Desert of New Mexico

We estimated demographic variables for a coyote (Canis latrans) population in the northern Chihuahuan Desert in spring 1991. Indices of coyote abundance indicated that the population was in a decline phase during 1991. Of 41 coyotes radio-collared on the Jornada Experimental Range near Las Cruces, New Mexico, only 7% were juveniles and a relatively high percentage (40%) were transient (nonterritorial) animals. Size of the core areas of 10 territorial ranges occupied by 13 coyotes averaged 5.6 km(2). None of 11 radio-collared females produced viable fetuses in 1991. We examined data from earlier studies to assess factors affecting population dynamics in the region. Autumn scent-station indices of coyote abundance were positively correlated with annual rainfall (July to June) during 1972-1981. Low recruitment in the population during 1991 may have resulted from the combined effect of relatively low rainfall and high coyote abundance in the preceding 2-3 yr.