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Why are coyotes sometimes hunted instead of foxes in the United States and Canada?

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A person wearing an orange vest and holding a shotgun walks through tall grass with a hunting dog ahead in a field with scattered trees. — hunting Bird hunting with a dog.

In the United States and Canada, coyotes are often hunted instead of foxes during hound-led hunts primarily due to ecological shifts and the nature of the quarry. While traditional foxhunting focuses on the chase rather than the kill, the increasing number of coyotes in these regions has made them a more prevalent target.1

Coyotes are physically larger, faster, and stronger than foxes, providing a more challenging chase for the hounds. Additionally, in some areas, there is a shortage of foxes, leading hunters to shift their focus to the more abundant coyote population.1

It is important to note that while hunting is a common management tool, the coyote has historically been persecuted due to its reputation for preying on livestock and game animals. Regardless of the motivation for hunting, ethical principles regarding the treatment of wildlife remain a significant consideration in modern discussions surrounding these sports.12