There are 1,939 recorded sightings of Coyote in Illinois, with 426 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in January through April.
When to See Coyote in Illinois
Most often reported in January through April.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 262 | Yes |
| February | 199 | Yes |
| March | 184 | Yes |
| April | 208 | Yes |
| May | 209 | No |
| June | 103 | No |
| July | 0 | No |
| August | 0 | No |
| September | 102 | No |
| October | 139 | No |
| November | 144 | No |
| December | 193 | No |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Coyote sightings in Illinois compare to other North American hubs:
Slimmer than a wolf, the coyote has pointed ears, a narrow muzzle, grey-brown fur with rusty legs and a bushy black-tipped tail carried low. It ranges from Alaska and Canada through the United States to Central America, in prairies, forests, deserts and cities. Rodents and rabbits are its staple prey, along with fruit and carrion. Look for it at dawn and dusk, and listen for yips and howls at night.
Other Wildlife to Look for in Illinois



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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Coyote in Illinois?
Coyote is most often reported in Illinois in January through April, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.
Where can I see a Coyote in Illinois?
There are 1,939 documented Coyote records in Illinois. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.
How can I find Coyote sightings near me in Illinois?
Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in Illinois.