Written by Maeve Rogers, Wolf Predation & Research Technician
In the expansive wilderness of Minnesota, where forests stretch as far as the eye can see and the haunting howls of predators echo through the night. Venture along the main highway bordering Voyageurs National Park at night, and you may just be greeted by two distinct sounds. The deep, haunting howls signify the enduring presence of a centuries-old inhabitant. Meanwhile, the sharp, high-pitched yips signal the presence of another. Two iconic members of the canine family roam the land: the gray wolf (Canis lupus) and the coyote (Canis latrans). While both species share similar habitats and behaviors, they also exhibit distinct differences that contribute to their unique roles in the ecosystem.
However, the question arises: In the obscurity of the night, how does one discern the nuanced differences between a wolf and a coyote?
Minnesota's vast and diverse landscapes are home to a rich array of wildlife, including two of the most iconic and enigmatic members of the canine family – the gray wolf and the coyote. While these two species belong to the Canidae family, they share certain similarities. However, they also exhibit distinct differences in their appearance, behavior, ecology, and impact on the ecosystem.
Identifying wolves from coyotes may seem straightforward due to the significant size difference, with adult wolves often towering two to three times larger. However, confusion persists, leading to ecological and legal implications.
The gray wolf is federally listed in the Endangered Species Act (ESA) as either threatened or endangered in the lower 48, including Minnesota where it is listed as threatened. In contrast, coyotes lack protection under the ESA or any defense at the state or federal level. Specifically in Minnesota, coyotes are unprotected and can be taken at any time through shooting or trapping. This article aims to explore the distinctive features that differentiate these canines, examining both their similarities and differences.
The Gray Wolf
Gray wolves, also referred to as timber wolves in Minnesota, exhibit distinctive features that set them apart in the wild. Once on the brink of extinction in Minnesota, concerted conservation efforts have led to a remarkable recovery of wolf populations in recent decades. Today, these predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems throughout the state.
Appearance and Size
One of the most striking features of the gray wolf is its sheer size and formidable presence. Adult wolves typically weigh between 60 to 120 pounds depending on geographical location, with males generally larger than females. Insights gathered from the Voyageurs Wolf Project in northern Minnesota have found that, on average, wolves in this region weigh between 60-62 pounds. However, the wolf population is not a one-size-fits-all. While certain adult female wolves in the area may weigh a modest 40 pounds, adult male wolves have been recorded weighing in the 80-pound range at the time of capture. In 2021, the project captured one exceptional solitary male wolf weighing 91 pounds. Weighing wild wolves poses a challenge as it's not an exact science due to the fact that an average wolf can carry up to 20 pounds of food in their stomach at any given time!
Wolves typically possess taller, longer, and bulkier physiques, measuring between four to five feet in length on average. They have long, bushy tails that often sport black tips, while their coats exhibit a blend of gray and brown hues, complemented by buffy facial markings and undersides. The coloration of wolves varies from solid white to brown or black, contributing to their visual diversity. Additionally, wolves possess slightly more rounded ears, boxier snouts, broader heads, and fur around their necks and faces that appears more tufted, akin to a parka.
