Coyote predation on a white-tailed deer population in southern Quebec

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Abstract
Coyote predation on white-tailed deer was studied in a 155-km2 forested area, including a 36-km2 deer wintering area. Deer hair constituted about 80% of coyote scat volume from January to April, 50% from May to July, and 20% from August to December. Deer consumed in summer were primarily fawns, likely killed by coyotes. Snowshoe hare represented an important prey item from May to December. In winter, coyotes preyed primarily on fawns and older deer, but not necessarily individuals in poorer physiological condition. We conclude that coyotes may have an impact on deer numbers in southern Quebec.