Wolf vs. Coyote: How to Tell the Difference in Colorado

Gray wolves and coyotes can both be found in Colorado. With the recent reintroduction of gray wolves in the state, sightings are starting to happen more and more frequently. With this, it has some Coloradans wondering if what they have seen in the wild is a wolf or a coyote.

Coyotes and wolves are similar creatures, even closely related genetically. They are both predatory canines, have similar brownish/gray shaggy fur, and howl as a form of communication. At first glance, and especially from a distance, they do look a lot alike. However, many things set these two animals apart.

For instance, wolves' fur can range from brown to white, black, and gray. Coyotes are only brownish/tan in color.

Another thing that differentiates these two species is size. Wolves are usually about twice the size of coyotes. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, wolves can measure up to 6 feet in length, and stand approximately 30 inches in height at the shoulder. Female wolves weigh around 70 to 80 pounds, while males weigh around 95 to 100 pounds. Their bodies are more muscular than coyotes.

Coyotes are shorter, sleeker, and lighter on their feet. They typically measure up to 4 feet in length including tail, and stand closer to 18 inches in height at the shoulder. Their weight ranges from 15 to 45 pounds - way smaller than gray wolves.

The snouts/muzzles are another way to tell these two animals apart from one another. Wolves have larger and blockier snouts/muzzles, while coyotes have longer profiles. The same goes for ears: wolves have more rounded ears than coyotes, whose are longer and narrower.

Wolves also have distinctively bushier and shorter tails.

Wolves are more social creatures that live in packs year-round, while coyotes tend to spend more time alone.

These identifying features can be used the next time one of these animals is spotted in Colorado.