For years, tales of a rare black coyote have been passed down among locals, like campfire stories told at dusk. Residing in the southeastern United States, this coyote’s ghostly coat of fur is the result of a mutation in its genes called melanism. As a result, the black coyote appears much different from its grey relatives, and onlookers have been known to stop in their tracks to take photos of the Elusive animal.

Some scientists have attributed the phenomenon of melanism to the combination of several alleles, which can produce a black coat coloration in some species. Whether caused by interbreeding or environmental factors, the black coyote is only known to properly exist in the southeast US, where reports of sightings began in the 70s and continue to pop up today.

People who have seen a black coyote describe it as bold and majestic. It isn’t known to be any more aggressive than other coyotes, but its unique coloration stands in stark contrast to its surroundings, making it easily spotted. Because it is so rare, it’s not surprising that some encounter, or at least hear, the animal more than once in their lifetime.

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The melanism thought to be the cause of the black coyote’s coat isn’t something that has been widely observed in coyotes or any other terrestrial mammal. This is why the wildlife community gets excited every time they catch a glimpse of this species, as it provides valuable insight into the functionality of its genetic makeup.

In fact, in recent years several studies have been conducted to look into the underlying mechanism of melanism in the black coyote in the hope that it will help scientists better understand the disorder itself.

The black coyote continues to captivate the public with its unique look and beguiling behavior. To see one in person is a truly entrancing experience and something that few people get the chance to experience in the wild. Whether solitary, in a group, or in the company of other canines, the black coyote is one creature that will never cease to fascinate and enchant us all.

Did we capture on on video on our remote property? The verdict is still unknown.