Coyotes can be tough skinning anyway, but once in awhile you get one that you pretty much have to cut the pelt off. I am sure it happens with other species also. So what do you think causes this hide lock up?

Rigor mortis.

Good one Boco


It seems that your older critters are harder to skin.

Boco, That would be one for sure! But it also happens in fresh killed animals.
Beav, I also think age can be a factor. It does seem more common in older animals.
So what about dehydration or stress?

Lack of fat and age of the coyote. Have seen it with old deer where the hide is so thin and so little fat its a PIA to skin.

A couple other thoughts on this.
The amount of scarring on the animal, some are so covered in old scars it can be hard to separate layers.
When doing the opening cuts and working at the base of the tail, if the saddle is left on the carcass instead of coming off with the pelt it also causes issues.

What are the species that are normally harder to skin? I have done coyotes, badger, bobcat, foxes and a few beaver. Beaver/badger are worst for me. There are lots of other species that people deal with. I am sure many have special issues.

Wolf.

Squirrel.