Coyote-Wolf Hybrid
KEEVA arrived at Animal Tracks in October 2017 after being rescued from a heartbreaking hoarding situation in Northern California. When she first came to us, she was terrified—so much so that it took nearly a year for her to trust us enough to accept even the briefest touch as she hurried past. We spent countless hours sitting quietly with her, speaking softly, allowing her to come to us on her own terms.
Fast forward five years, and the transformation is nothing short of remarkable. While still a bit shy, Keeva has formed deep bonds with her people—the lucky few she has chosen as her own. She has an endearing habit of rubbing her head all over their heads and necks, marking them with her scent as if to say, “You belong to me now.” It’s hard to believe she’s the same cowering animal who first arrived. Today, Keeva is a true queen, and watching her blossom has been one of the most rewarding experiences of all.
ORDER: Carnivora
FAMILY: Canidae
GENUS: Canis
SPECIES: Lupus
The wolf is the largest species of the wild dog family, and the coyote is mid-sized canine. A hybrid coy-wolf happens most of the time from human intervention. A wolf hybrid and domesticated dog-coyote hybrid are purposely bred to create a combined version of the three. Being from 3 very different canines this can lead to a very excitable or angst ridden animal that doesn’t really fit in. They have an acute sense of smell and hearing. Coyotes do not travel in packs, like wolves. They normally hunt individually or as a pair with their mate. They are monogamous for life, and both male and female take care of the babies. They pup in February - March after a 63 day pregnancy having 3 to 12 pups. The pups are independent in 35 days.
Threats
Their biggest threat are humans who find them to be pests. They are often trapped and poisoned. They also fall prey to domestic canine diseases or are hit by cars.
Conservation Status
LC - Least Concern