Quick Answer
When hunting coyotes at night with night vision, use terrain features and travel corridors to funnel animals into kill zones. Look for coyotes along ridges, creek beds, and fence lines, where they tend to congregate. Employ a "stalk and stop" technique to conserve battery life and maximize detection range.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Coyotes are primarily nocturnal, meaning they’re most active at night, and they often travel in pairs or small family groups. When using night vision, focus on areas with high vegetation, such as brushlands or woodlands, where coyotes like to den and hunt. These areas tend to have more abundant prey and provide cover for coyotes.
Identifying Coyote Tracks and Signs
When scanning with night vision, look for coyote tracks and signs in areas with recent animal activity. Use the night vision to spot the white underside of coyote tracks, which can be visible in the dark. Also, search for scat, urine, or digging marks, which can indicate coyote presence. Note that coyotes often dig dens in areas with existing burrows or rock outcroppings.
Effective Stalking Techniques
To effectively stalk coyotes at night, move slowly and deliberately, using terrain features to conceal yourself. Employ a “stalk and stop” technique, where you move 20-30 yards, then stop to observe and recharge your night vision. This method helps conserve battery life and allows you to detect coyotes over longer distances. When spotting a coyote, freeze in place and observe its behavior, then plan your shot accordingly.
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