Chillin' Coyotes: Resting After a Morning of Hunting

On a chilly day when temperatures linger around zero degrees at Carillon Stonegate Pond, two coyotes - brothers - were resting on the sunlit, snow-covered banks after a morning of hunting.

Coyotes are adaptable creatures that can thrive under various conditions, especially in dynamic habitats like those surrounding Carillon Stonegate Pond. As opportunistic predators, they skillfully forage for food across different terrains, including open fields, dense woods, and the edges of water bodies.

When coyotes hunt, they showcase their agility and sharp senses. For example, a coyote can hear sounds from a distance of over two football fields. They can spot prey as small as a mouse from 200 yards away. They typically target small mammals, such as rabbits, or birds, chasing them down with impressive bursts of speed — reaching over 40 miles per hour.

And once the hunt is over, just like we might do after enjoying a hearty breakfast, these coyote brothers found a cozy spot to nap and recharge.

Coyotes taking a break after their morning hunt

The banks of Carillon Stonegate Pond provide the ideal resting place for coyotes - especially on this bitterly cold day. The sunlight falling on these areas helps them absorb warmth, which is essential for maintaining their body temperature. Although their fur coats do keep them warm, basking in the sun also allows them to conserve energy during cold mornings.

From their vantage point on the high banks of Carillon Stonegate Pond, our coyotes can easily notice both prey and predators. Coyotes are most active during the early morning and late evening in search of food, making their daily naps a smart decision. Sleep is crucial for maintaining the energy needed to thrive in the harsh Chicago winters. This is especially important considering that coyotes, as they hunt, can travel over 20 miles in one night.

Drifting off on the snowy banks at Carillon Stonegate Pond

Coyotes are inherently social animals. As these brothers show, they often form tight family units that collaborate in both hunting and rearing their pups. After an active morning of chasing prey, napping collectively strengthens social bonds among pack members. While resting, they groom one another, establishing trust and reinforcing their community ties.

A close-up of one of the coyote brothers napping by the pond

Observing these fascinating creatures enriches our understanding of the ecosystem that is Carillon Stonegate Pond. So, take a moment to appreciate the small world of nature that is our pond. Take a hike and see what you can find – and identify!