Abstract
-We estimated demographic variables for a coyote (Canis latrans) population in the northern Chihuahuan Desert in spring 1991. Indices of coyote abundance indicated that the population was in a decline phase during 1991. Of 41 coyotes radio-collared on the Jornada Experimental Range near Las Cruces, New Mexico, only 7% were juveniles and a relatively high percentage (40%) were transient (nonterritorial) animals. Size of the core areas of 10 territorial ranges occupied by 13 coyotes averaged 5.6 km2. None of 11 radiocollared females produced viable fetuses in 1991. We examined data from earlier studies to assess factors affecting population dynamics in the region. Autumn scent-station indices of coyote abundance were positively correlated with annual rainfall (July toJune) during 19721981. Low recruitment in the population during 1991 may have resulted from the combined effect of relatively low rainfall and high coyote abundance in the preceding 2-3 yr.
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