19. ~ Coyote ~

The coyote is also known as the 'prairie wolf'. To Native Americans he is known as the keeper of the south. Coyotes have an unforgettable wild, errie yelp. The coyote is a skillful kritter. To some he is seen as a pest and a trouble maker. To others he is a remarkable thinker. A coyote is most active during the night. They can be located near a water source and a mountain region. They give birth using the same den each year. They have very close family ties. They love to sing, play, and work together. When a coyote is scared, it will hold its head very low and tuck its tail between its legs. It perks its ears up when it wants to listen. There are eight species of coyotes. They are able to live up to eighteen years in captivity, but now now only four or five years in the wild. A coyote woof or growl indicates a signal of short distance communication. A loud bark or a barking-howl indicates a long distance signal of danger. The yipping sound signifies a group reunion is just about to conclude. Generally they will retreat rather than engage in a figh, except in circumstances concerning their young pups. When encountering an aggressive coyote, use 'any' means of noise to deter its advancements. Never feed coyotes as they may attack without warning. Coyotes are tenacious. Most of them will weigh between twenty to thirty-five pounds. They are half the size of a wolf. Also, the howl of a coyote is a much higher pitch than a wolf's.

Medicine;

Coyote medicine teaches to recognize our mistakes. They teach us to admit our errors to others, and to grow from what we have learned. Coyotes remind us to laugh at ourselves and to not dwell on our disappointments. The coyote tells us to utilize our intuitive instincts to benefit in situations. They teach us to work harder to get along with our family members especially, in difficult times. The coyote teaches us to cut the the chase of the problem. Coyote medicine says that it is time to remind ourselves of the dangers and unseen consequences of ignoring a family issue. The coyote says to remember to sing out the praises of even those who have hurt us, and to get past old and painful memories. The medicine of the coyote teaches us to joke with wisdom, and always acknowledge where you came from. The coyote howls to remind us that no family is perfect, and that every family has its share of hard times and difficult relationships.