Coyote Pup, 07/04/26

Early Saturday morning, on my way to Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge, I came upon a super cute and very accommodating coyote pup. I’ve never seen a young coyote before, so it was pretty special for me. He/she was definitely aware of my presence, but did not get spooked and allowed me to take a bunch of photos before it made its way off the road and back towards the woods. I am really impressed with the size of its paws! It looks like it’s going to be a big beast some day. All photos were taken in Ulster County on 07/04/26.~

Regarding the birding at The Grasslands, it was enjoyable. I took a long walk and it was really birdy enough to keep me interested. All birds were the expected species, of note was what appeared to be (3) pairs of American Kestrels (it was hard to keep count, but that’s where I landed). Also of interest was the fact that I didn’t observe any Savannah Sparrows nor Grasshopper Sparrows. I’d be curious to know if any of the regulars there have been observing those two species this spring and summer.

On Sunday I went to Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area. My target was Ruffed Grouse, but unfortunately I didn’t have any luck. I was a birdy walk with most birds being heard and not seen – typical summer birding. I had a total of 29 species; birds of note included Blackburnian Warblers, Winter Wren, and Red-breasted Nuthatch. I really enjoyed hearing the Winter Wren song and also the song of the Hermit Thrush.

16 thoughts on “Coyote Pup, 07/04/26”

  2. Matt, what an amazing find! Those pictures are adorable, especially the one of it sitting facing you. And the lighting is gorgeous!

    1. It’s one thing to find something like this, but for the light to be perfect as well is just crazy, right?!? It was awesome. Matt

  3. This is by far one of the best things you have captured in a while, what a lucky break.

  4. Matt …..
    One of your best ever, and the very best without feathers. Made me go hug my dog after reading it.
    See God’s Dog, The North American Coyote (1975) by Hope Ryan

    TOM

    1. Thanks so much, Tom, I really appreciate it. And thanks for the heads up on the book – I will definitely read it. Matt

  6. That Coyote Pup is cute, but probably severely dehydrated after the rough week we had.
    They should normally flee from Humans.
    We have had a Wood Thrush (Black Dirt area of Florida) all Spring/Summer so far.
    The “Flutey” sound is wonderful to hear daily.
    Thanks for the updates, they are so informative.
    Patty Kiersten

    1. I was using the car as a blind, so while it was aware of something going on, it was mostly just reacting to the sound of the camera shutter it think. And I didn’t see any evidence of dehydration, so it’s hard to speculate on that. Nice that you can enjoy the Wood Thrush song from your home. Matt

  8. Incredible photos Matt! Love your site! Keep BIRDING brother, on and off the course! All the Best, John Presutti

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