COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY

Posted By: TEJAS

COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 03:45 PM

With Deer season winding down I finally have an opportunity to put the hurt on a few sendero smart coyotes.

This will be my fifth year to trap this particular ranch. The last two seasons produced over 160 coyotes. Thanksgiving was the start time for those two runs.

These coyotes have been under pressure and it shows. They will test your patience and force you to think outside the box. The tail end and post rut just adds another level of difficulty to the mix.

Taking into account the late start and catch numbers from the prior seasons I don’t expect to post up big numbers, but the unique challenges of this situation will certainly present a host learning opportunities.

The main objective is to kill as many coyotes as I can to help protect the deer herd.

No more fawns for this lanky ball of hate.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 03:46 PM

This line has been rolling for a few weeks so I’ll post up catch photos from the prior checks until I get to the current day.

The first check kicked off with a breeding pair double.

As is often the case, the hind caught coyote is the adult female.

Note the MB 550 tripped by a deer in the background.

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Here's a better look at the Male

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Female – Flat Set – MB Coyote Urine – Coyotero

Male – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – Coyotero

The third coyote of the day was caught at the junction of an untraveled sendero and the main road.

A well-used game trail runs down the center of the sendero from left to right.

Coyotes were running the left side of the two-track as well as the game trail. The wind was blowing from left to right.

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – MB Coyote Urine – JL #1

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 04:39 PM

Good to see you posting again looking forward to all the great pictures and content

Posted By: la4wd54

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 04:40 PM

Thanks for posting

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 04:54 PM

Nice catches.Way to go.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 05:39 PM

Way to go Tejas!!!

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 10:01 PM

Thanks for sharing Tejas!

Posted By: backroadsarcher

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 10:05 PM

Nice catches, keep getting them.

Posted By: USMC47 🦫

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 10:37 PM

Wear them butt sniffers out! Like they owe you money!

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/18/22 11:51 PM

Cool! Was waiting for another ride along!!

Posted By: keets

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 12:01 AM

THX for sharing.....always nice to see stuff from different parts of the country

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 12:40 AM

Sets around cattle guard junctions always produce their fair share of coyotes.

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Coyotes here will run the inside bend of a road more times than not.

This less traveled spur road was no exception.

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Male – Flat Set – G-Dog Urine – JL #1

This male was taken on a long stretch of road with no distinct features along the two track.

He wasn't about to pass up a roadside sniff.

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – Winter Wolf

In many cases It is hard to get a coyote to work a set very long in a wide open area like this.

More often than not it's a hit and run event. The far corner showed the most traffic.

[Linked Image]

This big girl made one step too many much to the dismay of her mate. She weighed in at twenty-eight pounds.

[Linked Image]

Female – Flat Set – MB Coyote Urine – Winter Wolf

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 01:45 AM

Tejas will they cross the cattle guard?

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 01:46 AM

Good to see you posting James

Hope you put the whammy on a bunch of them

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 02:22 AM

Hey Tejas, great to see you posting. Thanks for sharing.

Mac

Posted By: beartooth trapr

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 03:00 AM

Awesome pictures , keep after them.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 12:26 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Tejas will they cross the cattle guard?

You Betcha!

Most folks would probably think that they would just detour around it Yote.

They do for the most part except for a few.

I have a Catahoula that will walk across them.

When it rains you can see the muddy prints where they have crossed.

A talented few even have balance and aim good enough to leave a calling card right on one of the pipes!

Posted By: trapdog1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 12:55 PM

Interesting looking country. Is everything crawling with ticks?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 04:26 PM

Originally Posted by trapdog1

Interesting looking country. Is everything crawling with ticks?

The ticks aren’t too bad here TD. We see a few on the older bucks around the brisket area where they can’t reach. The javelina and coyote both have their fair share of fleas like you would expect, but the ticks don’t seem to be much of a problem.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 04:57 PM

Do you use flat sets the majority of the time or seasonal?

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 05:23 PM

Great job and POST Tejas!
Cool country and love that dry dirt.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 06:44 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

Do you use flat sets the majority of the time or seasonal?

Good Question GB!

When it comes to sets the flat is king here. Dirt holes are a comedy at best.

The pressured coyotes here are quick to make a visual association with almost any repetitive pattern they come across. A hole set in any form is an easy connection to make and will be approached with extreme caution.

Flat sets will take 95% of my coyotes. Blind trail sets are the big equalizer for the untouchables.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 07:10 PM

Good catches and pics. I hope to trap that kind of country one day...b4 Im too old.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 08:24 PM

James when you get a chance post some pictures of those fawns as adults and some of the arrowheads.Probably 60 days before we see dirt up here.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/19/22 08:33 PM

I like that Tejas. Precision poopers. Lol that would take some talent to drop a calling card on those pipes.

Posted By: trapdog1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 02:13 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by trapdog1

Interesting looking country. Is everything crawling with ticks?

The ticks aren’t too bad here TD. We see a few on the older bucks around the brisket area where they can’t reach. The javelina and coyote both have their fair share of fleas like you would expect, but the ticks don’t seem to be much of a problem.

Thank you for the answer. Awesome post and pictures!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 03:21 AM

Originally Posted by rick olson

James when you get a chance post some pictures of those fawns as adults and some of the arrowheads.Probably 60 days before we see dirt up here.

I’ll do just that Rick.

Points have been harder to find than a grey fox this year.

It needs to start raining soon so we can have a good 2022-23 deer season.

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Good catches and pics. I hope to trap that kind of country one day...b4 Im too old.

Swamp; if you ever find yourself down around the border give us a shout.

We have a seat at the dinner table with your name on it..

Posted By: red mt

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 04:24 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Golf ball

Do you use flat sets the majority of the time or seasonal?

Good Question GB!

When it comes to sets the flat is king here. Dirt holes are a comedy at best.

The pressured coyotes here are quick to make a visual association with almost any repetitive pattern they come across. A hole set in any form is an easy connection to make and will be approached with extreme caution.

Flat sets will take 95% of my coyotes. Blind trail sets are the big equalizer for the untouchables.

We'll said TEJAS if the hole was not made by critter I do not use the either.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 12:44 PM

Originally Posted by red mt

We'll said TEJAS if the hole was not made by critter I do not use the either.

Red, I try my best to make sets that fit the location or situation.

I give the coyote what he would expect to see on his travels along trails and roads he knows like the back of his paw.

Doing this causes the least amount of avoidance and creates the most foot traffic.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 01:06 PM

Here are a few more contestants.

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Female – Flat Set – MB Coyote Urine – Winter Wolf

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – Winter Wolf

This road has a large green field to the right and dense brush to the left with a gradual fall in elevation.

The field and thicket creates a funnel via this super sandy sendero.

[Linked Image]

The inside bend that leads into the thick brush to the left was the main exit ramp off the road.

Notice the berm that helps keep he traffic on the inside track.

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Here's a wide angle view to get a better feel for the location.

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I really like the look of this coyote.

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Female Flat Set – G-Dog Urine – Coyotero

Posted By: Owen156

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 02:51 PM

Great thread

Posted By: beaverpeeler

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 03:44 PM

Good stuff. If I ever get to trapping coyotes I'll remember to go the flat set route. I probably would have gone dirt-hole except for your repellent observations Tejas. Thanks.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/22 04:26 PM

I know up here along the Canadian border flat sets out produce hole sets,James is always thinking when it comes to killing coyotes.His thinking outside of the box is like a star shape or round ball lol,very simliar to Mr. Lucero methods that he has in one of the best coyote book ever written,plus he makes some good lure along with many others.

Posted By: red mt

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 01:54 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by red mt

We'll said TEJAS if the hole was not made by critter I do not use the either.

Red, I try my best to make sets that fit the location or situation.

I give the coyote what he would expect to see on his travels along trails and roads he knows like the back of his paw.

Doing this causes the least amount of avoidance and creates the most foot traffic.

I agree,,, I do the same

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 02:07 AM

Y’all’s coyotes would have a nervous breakdown in the South where trees, limbs, leaves, etc fall almost daily, lol. I bet ours see something new every time they come through.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 02:38 AM

TEJAS,
Great thread. Thanks for sharing the cool pictures and information.

Mac

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 11:39 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Y’all’s coyotes would have a nervous breakdown in the South where trees, limbs, leaves, etc fall almost daily, lol.
I bet ours see something new every time they come through.

WB, I was mostly referring to some of the visuals that are often used at sets.

I was talking more about things like a hole full of bait, rock walkthrough, charred piece of wood, or a bleached white cow bone that just magically appeared on the scene.

Any of the various toy sets also fit into that category.

No smell made can make a coyote forget an object just showed up there overnight.

Over time they’ll eventually check it out, but it will defiantly be avoided early on around here.

Posted By: KOSOI

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 11:44 AM

Great photos. thanks for sharing.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 12:06 PM

I love the sand we have here but it does have its drawbacks.

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Here is what happens when we get as little as one-tenth of rain.

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When this occurs it's time to rebed the entire line.

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There is a pad under the pan.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 01:20 PM

That’s what happens down here when that clay dries. It literally cements them in the deck.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 02:20 PM

Originally Posted by rick olson

When you get a chance post some pictures of those fawns as adults.

Here is what one of those fawns turned out to be Rick.

This is why I kill the fawn killers.

[Linked Image]

This buck was 7.5 years old and scored in the mid 80’s.

I’ll most likely post up a bit more deer content here and there along with the coyote trapping photos since one directly affects the other.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 03:08 PM

Let’em go to let’em grow.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 07:47 PM

Getting back to the red dirt coyotes……

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – JL#1

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Female - Flat Set – G-Dog Urine – Winter Wolf

This fella was picked up in a remake made a few day earlier at the sandy sendero.

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Not a bad looking coyote for South Texas.

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Male - Flat Set – G-Dog Urine – Coyotero

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 08:54 PM

Sure, like that ground Tejas. Good photos. How many times have you backed into that cactus? That can be some nasty stuff. I have kneeled in my share over the years.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 10:12 PM

Luckily, I’ve avoided getting a rump roast full of needles Mr. Jameson.

The pear usually gets me on the side of the calf just above the boot when we’re pulling one of those bucks out of the brush.

Every animal that lives here is full of pear needles. They work their way through the skin and lay flat stuck to the inside of the hide.

It makes skinning even more fun than ever!

I just did a remake this morning and used one of my favorite lures from your line.

Prairie King has taken some big adult males down along the border.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 11:09 PM

I’ve had the same results with prairie king here. Adult male killer.
I thought stick tights and cuckle burrs were bad. Can’t imagine having to deal with cactus. Ouch.

Posted By: Flint Hill fur

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/22 11:11 PM

I thought you said remakes don't work in a tx

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 01:13 AM

So where do you put your lure? Punch a hole or find something high near the set? Most of your photos show there’s not much around.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 03:00 AM

Originally Posted by Flint Hill fur

I thought you said remakes don't work in a tx

Quitters never win Flint.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 03:11 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Most of your photos show there’s not much around.

That’s because there isn’t much around WB.

I run a wide open pattern on all my sets.

Any attempted blocking or guiding here will often result in a refusal or balk.

An open pattern void of backing and fencing gets the most foot traffic by far.

I give the coyote all the space he needs to work the set on his terms.

You can’t force a coyote to step somewhere he doesn’t want to.

I'll put up a few sets in the coming days so you can get a better idea.

They’re nothing fancy, but they are effective.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 01:04 PM

I played a few chess matches with this gal.

She defeated several of my flats a few days in a row like she watched me make them.

She wasn't real old but she had game. Her mother taught her well. These are the coyotes you learn from.

[Linked Image]

Female – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – Winter Wolf

It looked like this female was in season, but the ground didn’t show any signs of male suitors except for one calling card about twenty yards away.

If there would have been more sign additional traps would have been set.

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set – MB Fox Urine - Coyotero

The young lady was nice enough to provide me with some fresh bait in the form of regurgitated meat.

[Linked Image]

The poop and meat on location were both used at the remake set.

No lure was used since it looked like she was in heat.

[Linked Image]

The original flat set would have looked the same as far as the absence of backing and guiding is concerned.

The attractants used are often what is found on site like in the above set.

Attractant location and type can vary widely, but the spacing usually stays within eight inches of the pan.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 01:44 PM

Tejas,
Your methods and tactics are very similar to mine. Some good info you're providing here to those that pay attention.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 02:53 PM

Nice work James, I dug 2 holes this season both caught racoon LOL .. Flat sets rock! You have sand I have snow to see everything that happens that no book can teach. Good info bud.

Posted By: saskbone

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 04:46 PM

Tejas enjoy your thread every year. I’m jealous of your sand. I foothold for a few weeks but mostly snare. Keep after them and keep posting those great pictures. Lots of great knowledge on here from you and guys like steeltraps,swampwolf and even that savage savell. Always pick up a little something from these posts.

Posted By: Carolina Foxer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 05:08 PM

Thanks for taking the time to make this thread Tejas. You take great pictures too.

I was wondering, if you are on a 'kill em all' type approach, and have to deal with super wary coyotes, have you considered using 2 traps at each set instead of one? I'm sure you have plenty of reasons why NOT, but was just curious.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/22 10:24 PM

Quote:

I played a few chess matches with this gal. She wasn't real old but she had game. Excellent observation.

It is eye opening and quite interesting the instincts that animals possess. Many of these instincts are innate IMO and not always learned. I have seen it many times with Beaver and Coyotes particularly. Just when you think you have them all figured out they keep you guessing. Persistence usually pays off in most cases with an innovative trapper.

We as humans have to learn from experience, others teaching or via education, then we grow with our knowledge. Imagine where mankind could be, being dealt a hand like that.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 12:03 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Tejas,
Some good info you're providing here to those that pay attention.

Originally Posted by saskbone

Lots of great knowledge on here from you and guys like steeltraps,swampwolf and even that savage savell. Always pick up a little something from these posts.

Thanks for the kind words Swamp & Sask.

It would be good to see some of the trappers that normally remain quiet on the forum pull up a stump and sit by the fire a spell.

There are some great coyote trappers on T-Man that never seem to post up much for whatever their reasons may be.

On the flipside there are folks new to the game that may be a little hesitant to chime in or ask a question because of their lack of experience.

T-Man benefits the trapping community in many ways. The least we could do is give back to the site by sharing just a bit of our time and knowledge in return.

We can all contribute in our own way by adding good content and asking questions.

I realize a lot of wolfers like to keep their cards close to the vest for the most part, but we can still discuss many aspects of coyote trapping without showing our hand.

Hopefully some of the content posted up here will generate a few informative discussions on trapping Wile E.

That’s more than enough preachin’.

Let’s get back to the coyote killin’.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 12:18 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

Flat sets rock!

You have sand I have snow to see everything that happens that no book can teach. Good info bud.

You Betcha G!

The coyote line is the classroom and the daily lesson is written on the ground.

The ability to read that sign is perhaps the most important skill of all.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 01:19 PM

As always a good thread with pictures and content.Coyotes are coyote where ever they live,but it's interesting how in some states or parts {areas}of those states that different sets out preform others.Many states and of or areas dirt hole do very well and other places they get little intrest other than non target animals,skunk,coon and possom.My guess on this is population of coyotes and the pressure being put on them.I will use KS for an example coyote meca,dirt holes work very well,high popluation,my guess is if you have the numbers it's easier for you to have success if you have 5 to 10 maybe more coming by your well picked locations in a few days than maybe 1 to 3 coyotes or less.Each season I do catch coyotes in a hole type set,deeper slide in trench set more of a natural canine digging,if we have a better popluation meaning more pups hole sets do pretty well.Our pup numbers seem to be decent about 3 to 4 times in a 10 year period,I have better luck with flat sets here and unless I pre dig trench our ground freezes pretty early most years,so flat sets are easier to make.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 01:51 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I played a few chess matches with this gal
.She wasn't real old but she had game.

Excellent observation.

It is eye opening and quite interesting the instincts that animals possess. Many of these instincts are innate IMO and not always learned.

I have seen it many times with Beaver and Coyotes particularly.

Just when you think you have them all figured out they keep you guessing.

Persistence usually pays off in most cases with an innovative trapper.

Mr. Jameson, you have made some great posts on every aspect of trapping, and I always pay close attention when you have something to say.

As trappers we would like to rationalize every movement the coyote made at the set.

You soon realize that while some moves are very calculated and repeated others are so random it makes your head hurt.

Trying to call an audible on what the defense is doing is like throwing a Hail Mary.

You are absolutely right.

In the end, persistence and thinking outside the box will will usually get the job done

Almost every one of my problem coyotes has been an adult female. They can wreak havoc on a line.

The only chink in their armor is that they like to play the game. That's what gets them in trouble.

In many cases, shortly after I catch a problem female I pick up a young female that the adult had in tow.

There's no doubt in my mind that the youngster was kept out of trouble to some extent by following her mother’s lead.

I can’t help but think there was a bit education going on there.

The question remains whether the behavior is inherent or learned.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 02:34 PM

Excellent post Tejas. Old girls are a pain in the butt.
Here it’s usually mud or early morning frost that lets me see the sign.

It’s not the yotes I catch that keeps me trapping it’s the yotes I can’t catch that keep me after them.

Posted By: DugK

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 03:21 PM

Tejas,
I am one of those that remains quiet in the forum, I sit on my log and read and listen. Mainly, because my jaw is on the ground in awe of your(and others) trapping skills. I read every word of threads like this. I study pictures like there is no tomorrow just too see differences and pick up ideas. They say a picture is worth a thousand words.
I will say that I appreciate threads like this, Swamp Wolfs, Steel traps and others just to name a few. I know I appreciate all those that share their knowledge.

Posted By: coyote 1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 05:51 PM

I really like following these threads and learning from you guys.

It's interesting that dirt holes don't produce well with your high population of coyotes down there. I have found the same here in Michigan, fox will work them but very rare for coyote.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 08:39 PM

Originally Posted by Carolina Foxer

Have you considered using 2 traps at each set instead of one?
I'm sure you have plenty of reasons why NOT, but was just curious.

Yes I have CF, especially on some of the problem coyotes.
As you know, there's more than one way to up your odds on catching a wise guy.
I gang set early on, so there may be two or three more sets close by.
I would rather have the coyote work four separate sets with four different looks & attractants than only two sets with the same amount of traps and fewer attractant choices. I have a chance to catch four coyotes with the first method and only two with the second.

Originally Posted by coyote 1

It's interesting that dirt holes don't produce well with your high population of coyotes down there.

C 1, it sure doesn’t seem like a big population at the movement.
The absence of tracks on the roads and trails tells the tale.You earn every single coyote you get at this time of the year.
Trapping Pressure along with the visual association is the reason hole sets won’t work well here anymore. Sure, you might reel in a few pups, but the adults will have a field day at your expense if you show them a line of dirt holes. It would be like trying to pull a fast one on an elementary school class vs. a bunch of college grads.

Originally Posted by DugK

Tejas,I am one of those that remain quiet on the forum; I sit on my log and read and listen. I read every word of threads like this. I study pictures like there is no tomorrow just too see differences and pick up ideas. They say a picture is worth a thousand words.

Thanks for posting DK.
Remember that studying photos, reading, and asking questions can provide more than just useful information. It will also help you generate some great ideas of your own. Keep an open mind and don’t get locked into one way of doing things just because it worked well a time or two.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 08:52 PM

Texas how many sets are you running at this time of year .

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 09:07 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Most of your photos show there’s not much around.

That’s because there isn’t much around WB.

I run a wide open pattern on all my sets.

Any attempted blocking or guiding here will often result in a refusal or balk.

An open pattern void of backing and fencing gets the most foot traffic by far.

I give the coyote all the space he needs to work the set on his terms.

You can’t force a coyote to step somewhere he doesn’t want to.

I'll put up a few sets in the coming days so you can get a better idea.

They’re nothing fancy, but they are effective.

Yes sir I can see it’s open, I’ve actually been in that type of area before. You stated coyotes don’t care for holes and notice, so that was why I asked the initial question of where do you put your lure you post on each catch. I’m guessing a small grass clump maybe. Some on here punch holes and drop it in, others say lures need to be up high and only bait in a hole. So what do you do?
I thought by definition, flat sets didn’t have guiding anyways, at least none I’ve seen posted. I too have noticed that I catch more coyotes on flat sets than dirt hole sets. Don’t know why, just know that I do.
I trap the polar opposite of your terrain. My lure goes in a punched hole. But I’m always reading others posts trying to learn something new that may benefit my catches as well. If lure goes up high or on a grass clump, then where exactly?

Posted By: coyote 1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/23/22 11:16 PM

I agree with the dogs learning about dirt holes from pressure in some areas.

I meant the high population as a general statement. It seems you guys have tons of coyotes in Texas. It appears you have done a great job at keeping the numbers down on this place from the previous years trapping it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/24/22 01:42 AM

Golf, I’ve cut back to just over two dozen right now.

Traffic on the road dictates how many I have out at any one time and where.

Out of the twenty-six remaining flat sets fishing, twenty have hit at least once.

Lure is usually under or on the backside of the main attractant.

I use a small amount of lure and keep it above ground.

I haven’t used backing in the last two seasons.

------------------------------------------------------------

C1, the brush holds a lot of game so we have a lot coyotes.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/24/22 12:03 PM

Tejas,

Thank you so much for sharing all the great photos and thoughts on methods. Excellent stuff.
Really appreciate it, as do many others. Lots of coyote knowledge. Awesome sharing.

Mac

Posted By: Yotegiter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/24/22 12:45 PM

I’m always open ears and trying to learn to be the best I can for my customers. With that being said admittedly flat sets are not my strong point. My go to sets are natural looking dirt holes with natural bait, Blind sets, trail sets with turds, and snares.

My struggles with flat sets come from Misses, for example last week my wind forecast was out of the S, SE, SW, N, E and so on. Seems you only get a night or two when sets are lined up with the wind.

My question is how do you consistently get a coyote to hit a 2” circle, with an open pattern, no backing and changing winds? Also you say that you do not use any backing. Does that exclude grass clumps and rocks? Are you only setting turds, and you put your lure on the opposite side your trap is on? Sorry for so many questions, but like I said I really struggle with flat sets. Thanks

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 01:33 AM

Originally Posted by Yotegiter

My struggles with flat sets come from Misses. Seems you only get a night or two when sets are lined up with the wind.

My question is how do you consistently get a coyote to hit a 2” circle, with an open pattern, no backing and changing winds?

Also you say that you do not use any backing. Does that exclude grass clumps and rocks?

Working the wind is not a given when it comes to catching Wile E.

They will work the upwind side of a set without a second thought.

Being able to read and interpret sign is what kills the most coyotes for me.

An extra helping of persistence reels in the problem children.

No backing means just that.

Posted By: coyote 1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 03:18 AM

Tejas,

My question is similar to Yotgiter. How do you get them to consistently step on the pan with open sets with no backing? I miss quite a few with open pattern flat sets. They work behind or off to the side more times than not.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 12:34 PM

Originally Posted by coyote 1

Tejas, How do you get them to consistently step on the pan with open sets with no backing?

I miss quite a few with open pattern flat sets.

They work behind or off to the side more times than not.

Misses are just a part of the game C1

The use of backing is a poor deterrent for side digging and back door approaches on smart adult coyotes in this neck of the brush. In some cases, it seems to illicit those responses because it puts the focus on the backing itself.

If you were calling plays in a football game and certain ones weren’t working you would change your strategy. You read what the defense is doing and call an audible.

If you leave a miss just like it is and hope for better luck the next day you can most likely expect the same result. If you remake a defeated set back the way it was, you can bank on a repeat performance and another empty trap.

There is no magic spacing, offset, or location when it comes to traps and their attractants.

I'm trying to get a few ideas across more than a specific set or its construction.

Learn to read sign well and be relentless. Those are the two most important assets you can bring with you on the line.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 03:29 PM

Here’s some coyote mayhem from a set just few days back.

Coyotes were running this game trail that skirted the brush instead of using the main road on the left.

This set along with two others close by had each picked up a coyote.

Make note of the wind direction. The X marks the pan.

[Linked Image]

Notice how hard the coyote worked the outer edge of the upwind side of the set.This was not a hot catch circle by the way.

The downwind side of the set is completely void of tracks.
.
[Linked Image]

The lone arrow shows where the coyote shuffled both of his front feet in a small area smudging out the tracks while checking out the attractant.

[Linked Image]

With the sign the coyote has provided, what would be your next move?

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 05:16 PM

If you're setting up like that and not wanting to have misses, you would be better off having a trap on each side. I've never trapped in Texas but I can see a lot of things to use naturally to possibly make the coyote work from the proper angle. I would have to be there to fully understand what you are dealing with though.

To me you are using a backing. That cow pie is a backing. You mentioned earlier that you sometimes put the lure on the opposite side of a object. If that's what you did here it can be expected for the coyote not to work the trap side. Set that cow pie closer to some of little brush sticking up from where the wind direction is coming from. Even in the best situations though, you'll always have some work the opposite side.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 05:53 PM

First off, great thread TEJAS!
I would move the attractant straight across to the other side of the trap.
Then add some droppings to the side of the attractant with a tiny squirt of urine to peak his interest since he’s already visited once and brush out the tracks where he shuffled his feet leaving the tracks close to the trap.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 06:44 PM

Not me...I wouldn’t add any scent at all...I’d let those sets sit. But I’d go to where all those tracks were and add a trap next to the bush in the bottom right corner...no attractor.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 09:29 PM

I wouldnt touch that trap. I'd ride up to it on the SxS and squirt a fresh puddle of urine on the opposite side of the trap from the cow patty....and then drive away without getting off the SxS.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 09:40 PM

Great advice Swamp Wolf.

I developed a product for just that scenario Swamp Wolf some years back. I always worked from an ATV for many years and rarely got off to touch up or add a scent to a set. I learned about getting off too often after running hard and fast for problem animal cleanouts.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 10:07 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

Great advice Swamp Wolf.

I developed a product for just that scenario Swamp Wolf some years back. I always worked from an ATV for many years and rarely got off to touch up or add a scent to a set. I learned about getting off too often after running hard and fast for problem animal cleanouts.

I made up a set refresher that I used like this a few years back. I ran out of it and started using urine only. The urine - gland lure mixes marketed today are excellent for this scenario. It would 4 sure benefit a coyote/bcat/fox trappers to have a squirt bottle of good product on hand.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/25/22 11:07 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

I wouldnt touch that trap. I'd ride up to it on the SxS and squirt a fresh puddle of urine on the opposite side of the trap from the cow patty....and then drive away without getting off the SxS.

Good Stuff Swamp!

I refresh my line in exactly the same manner, except for sets that are off the road.

When I get repeated mayhem with a pattern at a few sets close together I will make changes accordingly.

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

I made up a set refresher that I used like this a few years back. I ran out of it and started using urine only. The urine - gland lure mixes marketed today are excellent for this scenario. It would 4 sure benefit a coyote/bcat/fox trappers to have a squirt bottle of good product on hand.

I always think about spiking urine during the season, but never seem to get around to it.

It sure would give you a lot more options when things get tough.

Posted By: coyote 1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 12:43 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by coyote 1

Tejas, How do you get them to consistently step on the pan with open sets with no backing?

I miss quite a few with open pattern flat sets.

They work behind or off to the side more times than not.

Misses are just a part of the game C1

The use of backing is a poor deterrent for side digging and back door approaches on smart adult coyotes in this neck of the brush. In some cases, it seems to illicit those responses because it puts the focus on the backing itself.

If you were calling plays in a football game and certain ones weren’t working you would change your strategy. You read what the defense is doing and call an audible.

If you leave a miss just like it is and hope for better luck the next day you can most likely expect the same result. If you remake a defeated set back the way it was, you can bank on a repeat performance and another empty trap.

There is no magic spacing, offset, or location when it comes to traps and their attractants.

I'm trying to get a few ideas across more than a specific set or its construction.

Learn to read sign well and be relentless. Those are the two most important assets you can bring with you on the line.

Thanks Tejas. Im trying to absorb the information and ideas in this thread. I apologise for so many questions. You are the only one I can recall mentioning refusals to backing, so I though I would pick your brain.

In the spirit of learning. I would put a trap where the coyote shuffled it's feet on the back side in your picture. If the trail is where I think it is, I would add a blind set where the trail narrowed down between the two bushes. Hard to tell from the photo, maybe 15 to 20 yards from the set?

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 01:19 AM

I don’t think I would change a thing at that set . That coyote was already flirting with death and has no clue. He got lucky but he will be back . Some times a miss is just a miss.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 01:34 AM

Originally Posted by J Harrell

First off, great thread TEJAS!

I would move the attractant straight across to the other side of the trap.

Then add some droppings to the side of the attractant with a tiny squirt of urine to peak his interest.

Outstanding!

That is what I was hoping someone would come up with.

The Miss

[Linked Image]

The Adjustment

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 02:02 AM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

I don’t think I would change a thing at that set .

That coyote was already flirting with death and has no clue. He got lucky but he will be back .

Some times a miss is just a miss.

I agree GB. Sometimes it’s just a coyote being a coyote.

I’ll usually reserve adjustments for defeated sets and repeated misses.

There's no right or wrong answer of course.

I am just passing along a tactic that has worked very well for me on problem coyotes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 01:35 PM

Good Saturday Morning Coyote Crew!

This old man had put a lot of dirt roads behind him in his day.

I would imagine he was responsible for many a fawn’s demise over the years.

[Linked Image]

He is a Boone & Crockett caliber coyote for in my book.

This is why I use mostly flats on pressured ground.

Adjustments made to the set as earlier shown helped reel in this old timer.

[Linked Image]

Male - Flat Set - MB Coyote Urine - Winter Wolf

Here is a look at the K9’s.

[Linked Image]

This fella was missing most of his incisors.

[Linked Image]

His molars were worn out as well.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 01:36 PM

Guys I really believe that one of the most common mistakes for novice coyote trappers is “messing around”
at the set. Leave those sets alone! Let the animal get comfortable working it. AND how does a trapper know for sure if a different coyote inspects the set? Even with cameras you don’t know for sure. Just my take...

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 01:42 PM

B&C for sure 9 to 10 year old,he had caused trouble on that ranch's deer herd for sure.Agree with Mike make it and don't tinker with it,coyotes are not fox!

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 01:47 PM

Yep, hard to do but leaving a set alone is better than tinkering with it all the time. I learned that here on TM.

Caught a coyote yesterday in a set that had been out for 18 days, only gave it a squirt of urine about 5 days ago after making the set.

Good work James on out manuvering that smart old coyote

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 02:06 PM

In 30 years of coyote trapping I’ve only seen 3 or 4 coyote with gums like that ,lol. Definitely a booner, congratulations!

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 02:38 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Guys I really believe that one of the most common mistakes for novice coyote trappers is “messing around”
at the set. Leave those sets alone! Let the animal get comfortable working it. AND how does a trapper know for sure if a different coyote inspects the set? Even with cameras you don’t know for sure. Just my take...

Spot on bud, that is an old girl. Bet she taught a lot of pups. I'm guessing over 10. Those are the ones that make ya feel like you're on the right track.

"The wind direction is the backing", forgot who told me that but it changed the way I trap.

Posted By: MartinT

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 08:30 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I love the sand we have here but it does have its drawbacks.

[Linked Image]

Here is what happens when we get as little as one-tenth of rain.

[Linked Image]

When this occurs it's time to rebed the entire line.

[Linked Image]

There is a pad under the pan.

do you not like peat moss inside the jaws?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 11:32 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Guys I really believe that one of the most common mistakes for novice coyote trappers is “messing around” at the set.

Leave those sets alone! Let the animal get comfortable working it.

I couldn’t agree more MChewk..

My intent was not to steer folks in the wrong direction leading them to think they should tinker with sets all the time.

Hopefully I made that clear when I said I reserve adjustments for defeated sets and repeated misses.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/26/22 11:42 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

AND how does a trapper know for sure if a different coyote inspects the set? Even with cameras you don’t know for sure. Just my take...

Good Question MC!

When I have a repeated pattern of working a single or string of sets multiple times I can get a pretty good idea if it’s a specific coyote.

When I counter the coyote’s moves and make a catch there is of course no way I can know for certain it was the same coyote.

It’s only after the catch when the remake and other sets in the immediate area that were being worked suddenly become a ghost town.

I can then say with some certainty the coyote caught was probably the culprit.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 04:53 PM

When it comes to reading sign we have a great canvas in the form of sand.

A small rain event can help provide some of the best recon you could ever ask for.

The road shows a deer on the left track and a big coyote on the right.

There is a set about a hundred yards up the road on the left.

[Linked Image]

The coyote is at his usual slow gait shown by the heavy tracks in the sand.

[Linked Image]

He remains in the right track for the most part until he's about ten yards from the set then makes a detour to the trail on the right..

Notice the shift to the right well before the set. He knows it is there.

The X marks the set.

[Linked Image]

You can tell that the coyote slows down to a walk just before the exit by how the tracks go from heavy to light.

He is most likely eyeing the set location as he goes by. The set is a cold remake.

[Linked Image]

The coyote goes thirty yards past the set then crosses back to the left side of the road following the game trail on the that side.

After another fifty yards or so the coyote merged back onto the road at cruising speed.

[Linked Image]

The next cold remake set on the same side of the road a few hundred yards away way was avoided as well.

This behavior is exactly the same as new object avoidance.

If you were to have put a hole, toy, or any other foreign object just off the two track a smart coyote will often times detour and avoid that stretch of road completely.

Think about what you present at your sets, especially along the road.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 05:27 PM

Do you ever set the center of the 2 track with a low key flat?

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 05:33 PM

Rain can be your friend Tejas...except when it turns your trap covering into concrete...lol

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 06:21 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

Do you ever set the center of the 2 track with a low key flat?

Good question G.

That was tried several times early on this year where a subtle flat was made in the center of the road and one was made at the road’s edge only yards away.

Only one center road set hit and the rest were side catches. Similar looking sets were used in those cases.

The side sets were probably more productive because I usually set at the junction of a trail that crosses the road.

That trap placement does get a few more deer trips, but it adds up to more coyotes as well

I think it will work much better here on senderos that don’t see a lot of traffic.

Originally Posted by MChewk

Rain can be your friend Tejas...except when it turns your trap covering into concrete...lol

Amen to that!

When I look at what or friends in Minnesota have to deal with, I thank my lucky stars I have a beach to trap on.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 10:42 PM

It's worth saying again great thread TEJAS! The way you are presenting this thread it's like we are riding the line with you.

Do you think this coyote witnessed the other coyotes in the sets, or do you think he is just avoiding the old catch circles due to the disturbance on his normal route?

What's your next move to put him in the buggy?

A fresh set along his route or a blind set on the trail where he left the road for a bit?

And yes that sand makes an awesome crime scene to learn from!

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 10:58 PM

Keep sharing Tejas. Good stuff.
Mac

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/27/22 11:15 PM

Tejas threads are always very good,full of great info along with some of the best pictures.His attention to DETAIL is incredible,his note taking,record keeping etc.is unlike anyone I know,Jack GULO had made that statement about 3 or 4 years ago.Keep it up and thank you for sharing some of your thoughts with trapper's,novice to well seasoned veterans!

Posted By: coyote 1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 01:24 AM

I agree. Have learned a few things from this thread already.

Posted By: coyote 1

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 01:24 AM

I agree, have learned a few things from this thread already.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 02:31 AM

That brush wolf is on to ya Tejas. That one may end up remaining alive as breeding stock....or as a target thru a thermal scope.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 02:41 AM

Thanks for the kind words fellas.

Keeping good records is time well spent and more coyotes killed.

I’m still hoping that a few more coyote men might decide to jump in and add some valuable insight.

It’s not so much a critique of methods, but a discussion of options for different situations

A remake is a good thing

Finding part of a projectile point at a remake is even better.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 04:12 AM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

That brush wolf is on to ya Tejas. That one may end up remaining alive as breeding stock....or as a target thru a thermal scope.

Dang Coyote!

Swamp, my magic bag of tricks is running low, and I ate the last rabbit I pulled out of my hat.

I can usually pick up some of the untouchables with blind trail sets, but there has to be a pattern.

Travel has been random at best. They are here one day and gone the next.

The sets already in place will most likely never pick up that wise guy as you well know.

New sets made along roads with existing sets will most likely be avoided as well.

Any new smell introduced would probably be shunned like the ones already in use.

Options are limited and chances for a catch are slim.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 04:19 AM

Originally Posted by J Harrell

What's your next move to put him in the buggy?

A fresh set along his route or a blind set on the trail where he left the road for a bit?

You are right on the money again JH!

I know where his main detour off the road is if he happens to pass by again.

I'm confident he will repeat the same pattern if he comes back by.

The problem is there is only one pass of tracks on that trail to work off of.

I will take a look and see if I can get a few blind trail sets on that section of trail if tracks permit.

It’s a long shot, but it’s better than taking no shot.

Good Stuff!

Posted By: red mt

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 09:41 AM

I ll come out and admit it I just set a second trap if I want a certain coyote beside flat sets, blind trails ,and mod.mafia sets in cow trails.
As long as that coyote does not set that trap off no schooling took place imo. And if they do set it off move trap 100' up or down trail use different lure or whatever and you got him or her if no catch circle was present ime.
Red

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 11:00 AM

This thread has shared a lot of insights on difficult behavior.
Most of the places I have trapped in Maine, simply do not allow one to see what is going on around sets.
That is until a light snow. Then you can get a humbling view of coyotes giving you the cold shoulder.
Good stuff Tejas. Thank you to all the other coyote guys weighing in. A valuable thread.

Mac

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 12:23 PM

Thanks Tejas good post as usual! Red, if Ma’ Nature would just back off us trappers a little, we could get our job done and move on but what fun would that be...lol
Tejas another question for you, how long after you pull up traps do you start seeing more coyotes migrating back in? A week, two weeks or are you restricted to when you have to pull traps up? Between mating season, the interference from others and the adverse weather ALL OF US trappers have to deal with I’m going to guess it is not too long.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 01:50 PM

Originally Posted by red mt

I ll come out and admit it I just set a second trap if I want a certain coyote beside flat sets, blind trails ,and mod.mafia sets in cow trails.
As long as that coyote does not set that trap off no schooling took place imo. And if they do set it off move trap 100' up or down trail use different lure or whatever and you got him or her if no catch circle was present ime.
Red

Good Post Red.

I will add to Red’s post in that around here when a trap is exposed by a swipe of a paw or unearthed by a dig it's an educational moment as well.

It's a different type of schooling, but it leads to a lot of mayhem instead of avoidance.

I refer to digs as a defeated set. When this happens I will immediately make a change.

If you don’t adjust, you're giving the coyote a hall pass to turn your nice looking set into a yard sale.

I certainly understand the effectiveness of doubling the odds by adding another trap. After all, upping your odds is what it’s all about.

That is why I have three or four sets nearby in case one is defeated. That’s how I shift the odds in my favor.

If a coon happens by and mucks up a set I still have multiple traps fishing.

There is nothing worse than a coon jacking up your set & pulling the trap from its bed, then Wile E. drops by for a visit and a laugh.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 04:07 PM

Tejas, when you refer to a dig as a defeated set, do you just change things at the set or move the trap?

For my soil conditions I use and like a fiberglass pan cover. After taking 3 or 4 coyotes in one section you'll see where one has caught on to the lured/baited sets. The coyote will come up and dig/scratch at the pan and expose the pan cover. Most would think that set is defeated. I just grab the pan cover and remove it. The dirt has had time to settle in around set trap, so I just cover pan with dirt and remove cow pie, which is usually a typical backing for me. Then I add a piece of scat or other natural object laying around and squirt it with urine. Sometimes 2 natural objects spread 8" apart with a different urine on each object. That has resulted in many catches at that exact same dug set. Just by changing the presentation, look, and smell throws them a curve ball sometimes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/28/22 07:52 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Tejas, when you refer to a dig as a defeated set, do you just change things at the set or move the trap?

For my soil conditions I use and like a fiberglass pan cover. After taking 3 or 4 coyotes in one section you'll see where one has caught on to the lured/baited sets. The coyote will come up and dig/scratch at the pan and expose the pan cover. Most would think that set is defeated. I just grab the pan cover and remove it. The dirt has had time to settle in around set trap, so I just cover pan with dirt and remove cow pie, which is usually a typical backing for me. Then I add a piece of scat or other natural object laying around and squirt it with urine. Sometimes 2 natural objects spread 8" apart with a different urine on each object. That has resulted in many catches at that exact same dug set.

Just by changing the presentation, look, and smell throws them a curve ball sometimes.

That's some good insight and strategy SPC.

That last sentence says it all. Folks should take that advice with them on the line every single day.

Silky, the trap always stays put in my case. For the most part, only the attractants are moved. If a look is reversed 180°, the dog will usually be turned to face the main attractant. For me, a swipe is certainly not a defeat. A set excavation is self-explanatory. I’ve found that only some diggers are hard to catch. The swipe and walk coyotes are in another league here.

When they swipe and expose the pan then walk off, it’s a real slap in the face to me. It’s like he is asking “Is that all the game you’ve got”? I take it like the coyote is mocking me. And the more I think about it, I’m certain he is. At least the digger gives me a chance! It may not be personal, but I certainly take it that way.

That’s when I start mumbling obscenities under my breath, and talk trash about the problem coyote’s Mama.

Then I whip up a little surprise or two for Mr. Smarty Pants.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/01/22 02:32 AM

Some sets may appear like they’re off the road a piece because of where the coyote is in the photo.

The coyote usually pulls as far over into the grass as he can.

[Linked Image]

I always get as close as I can to the road’s edge without my traps becoming a statistic.

[Linked Image]

Male - Flat Set – G-Dog Urine – Winter Wolf

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/01/22 02:11 PM

Excellent tip for all trappers TEJAS! Set as close to the action as possible.

I had a statistic awhile back, survey crew got a full tire width outside the lane. I’m going with texting and driving LOL.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/01/22 03:02 PM

Cattle guard crossings will usually afford you some great set locations.

This photo was taken before traps were set.

Keep in mind when you are reading sign, a few coyotes can make a lot of tracks.

Notice the traffic at the left hand corner of the guard. The main direction of the tracks is coming though the gap then taking a left and skirting the field.

A set was going to be made on the turn where the trap is placed, but an army of harvester ants thought otherwise.

I started to make the set anyway, but the ants called in reinforcements. All of the sudden the other side of the guard looked like a much better location

[Linked Image]

These two photos are for Yoteguts.

Check out the traffic all the way up to the edge of the guard

[Linked Image]

They must be circus coyotes.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/01/22 03:19 PM

Surely they aren’t jumping it are they??

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/01/22 04:01 PM

Not sure about South Texas, but in Indiana cattle guards are low rent housing for mice, rats, ground squirrels, rabbits, etc.

Things that are on a coyotes menu. Something to keep in mind.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 01:03 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Surely they aren’t jumping it are they??

As you would think , all through traffic goes around the gate.

In the second photo, the foot traffic is only on the North side at the middle of the guard. We have a dominate South Easterly wind.

Small kangaroo rats like to hold up in the guards, then come out at night like little gremlins and mess with your set.

Like JH suggested, they are probably just looking for a snack . They will walk out on the guard to get a better look into the abyss.

You can sometimes see faint tracks where the sand on the paw stuck to the moisture on the pipes when the coyote crossed.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 01:12 AM

Man what I’d give for a light snow or sandy roads. Pine needles and leaves don’t leave very much sign.
Thanks for sharing the pics and your insight to these critters.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 03:13 AM

Dead yotes walking there Tejas. I’m so jealous of that sand. Usually here I have mud or frost to read the sign. We really get handicapped when it’s froze without snow. Kind of a guessing game then.

I could really see how those places would be excellent rodent habitat. It would provide great protection from some predators especially hawks and owls.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 12:17 PM

I've always related trapping coyotes to bass fishin', there are those rare magic days they'll chase down crank baits but there are times when a bit of finesse is in order. I've had coyotes walk by sets in snow and turn around after walking 100 yards past sets and get caught. Which leads me to believe they ponder the smells we offer. Sometimes for days. I trapped a big male this season that by his tooth wear was over 10 years old that I've been after for 3 seasons. A turd on a rock is all it took after a month of avoidance of 5 other flat sets. Dirt holes never got any attention at all. How do I know it was the same coyote? He had toes missing on his right rear paw I could see in his track. Both front paws in the Alpha , made my season...

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 01:45 PM

Here is a series of cattle guards that has been a good set location in the past.

Without being able to see the sign, where would you set in this situation and why?

[Linked Image]

The wind blows from left to right in this photo.

[Linked Image]

I will post up later where I set, and where the best set locations have been.

This is one of the guards they walk across regularly.

[Linked Image]

There is a confluence of six roads with a third guard in the background to the far right.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 03:22 PM

Happy BDay Tejas!

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 03:48 PM

If I understood right ( left to right wind ) the two red spot to the left are imo are correct. The one I marked off to the right may be better across the road . [Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 04:28 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Happy BDay Tejas!

Thanks!

I couldn’t think of a better way to spend it MC!

I’m halfway through the line and already found two coyotes that asked for a ride in the Polaris.

One of them I’ve been waiting to meet for a while.

Life is good folks!

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 06:25 PM

Happy Birthday James!

Was the one that veered off the road and then back on around your set one of the participants in the Polaris ride?

I agree with Golf ball but I would add another on the point with the big mesquites if I am reading the wind right

Posted By: Yotegiter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 06:30 PM

Without being able to see sign I am assuming the coyotes as they cross the cattleguard want to get their feet in dirt as soon as possible. Therefore I am looking for Blind set opportunities on drags at the cattleguard. Out away from the cattleguard I’m going to use turd sets with a little bit of gland lure on them that is if there’s enough action there for 4 sets.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 06:33 PM

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 06:49 PM

Happy birthday James, have a great day. Might be a good time to take 5 and have a cool drink of Gatorade.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 08:40 PM

A lot of the time when I set something like this I try and imagine where the yote will first be able to see around the corner and set there. Kind of like a mini stall out. Like Silky’s set to the right of the pic.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/02/22 10:24 PM

Great pictures and explanations. Thanks
Also, Happy Birthday
Mac

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 04:10 AM

Here are the top two spots.

The right set location was the top producer.

[Linked Image]

Here is a closer look at the top spot.

The bend on the right side of the road has never taken a coyote even though the wind usually blows across the road from right to left.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 12:17 PM

So that trap is on the downwind side of the road? Interesting…..

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 12:26 PM

Originally Posted by Tony1967

So that trap is on the downwind side of the road? Interesting…..

When you're right on the sign at the road's edge, the wind isn't as much of a factor.

They are going to walk right on top of the set when they pass by.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 12:28 PM

Here is a set from yesterday afternoon.

The Situation:

He didn’t quite make it.

[Linked Image]

The Scene:

The location is a thirty acre field surrounded by brush.

[Linked Image]

The Set:

The trusty old buck stuck in the fence set.

(View from the field side.)

[Linked Image]

The Wind:

Wind is blowing down the fence from left to right at the moment.

The next direction change will send the wind toward the viewer.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: 8117 Steve R

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 12:46 PM

are you going to set them right in the tire track or off to the side?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 01:00 PM

Originally Posted by 8117 Steve R

are you going to set them right in the tire track or off to the side?

They are all set in the road where the X's are in the last photo.

Posted By: 8117 Steve R

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 01:02 PM

That must me a nice set up. I have never trapped where I had enough control of the traffic to be able to do that.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 01:16 PM

Here's a question or two for the Coyote Crew this morning.

How would you set the above situation up as far as location, set type, and number of traps are concerned?

What would be your primary attractant in this case?

Keep in mind we have a lot of birds to contend with, and coyote numbers are really low.

The wind usually blows into the field.

The remaining coyotes are on point and have a lot of game.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 01:50 PM

Blind sets in the tire tracks,mafia set,trapping close to a loud stinky draw I do well with a subtle flat set with a sweeter smelling lure.One I have good success with is beaver meat,castor and salmon oil another one is otter gland with muskrat gland with a little honey.Depending on tracks 2 to 4 sets within 30 yards of your attractant {deer}.I see burn circles in the the road way,dont over look a burnt hide staked down set pole barn spike make sure you pick them up after your done flat tires will get you kicked off farms/ranches {small}hide size of a golf ball or smaller.

Posted By: Anonymous

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 01:50 PM

Tejas. What is your preferred trap set up and staking method? Do you use pan covers or anything to keep the sand from clogging up the pans fall? One more question- do you cover your pan level with the surrounding dirt or like to have a slight depression above the pan? Thanks. I appreciate your thread and sharing of experience.

Posted By: 8117 Steve R

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 02:00 PM

Urine on a tuft of grass closest to the two track. I would also look for a trail under the fence.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 02:41 PM

I think the trail sets you have on the field side road are excellent, only thing I would add to them is a couple sets on the road across the fence.
A pee post with good urine and a tiny dab of gland and the other a simple turd set with urine.

My thinking is the addition of some coyote smells across the fence would possibly cause one to do a little more pacing over the blind sets before jumping into the deer carcass, also if one was already caught in one of the blind sets I could see others ducking under the fence and milling around the road opposite of coyote that’s already hooked up, trying to decide if it’s safe to hit the carcass.

Thanks for all the information you posting, this thread is addicting!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/03/22 04:16 PM

Good Stuff Fellas!

There are a couple of reasons why I didn’t set the other side of the fence right off the bat.

There’s a lot of deer traffic in this area. In the third photo there is a trail that parallels the road on the right. With a right to left wind sets would be on the right side of the road for the most part. That puts them right next to the deer trail.

Notice the cross trail to the right of the deer in the second photo. That looks like a great place for a set, but it’s a major crossing point for deer entering the field. If you set there you would have tripped traps every day. There is a set where that trail crosses the two track my traps are on. It's the most distant set on the front line.

Another reason I left the sandy road alone for now is so I can get current recon.

One coyote passed on that road last night and never broke stride. The buck is still somewhat new, so some coyotes will shy away from it even though it’s a menu item.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 12:39 AM

Originally Posted by Rubee

Tejas. What is your preferred trap set up and staking method?
Do you use pan covers or anything to keep the sand from clogging up the pans fall?
One more question- do you cover your pan level with the surrounding dirt or like to have a slight depression above the pan? .

MB 550 – RC Offset Jaw
MB Chain Stakes
Foam pad under the pan

[Linked Image]

Slight to no depression over the pan when bedded.

If I can can tell where the trap is from the concave I level it out some.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 01:26 AM

Man it’s so nice to read about someone else that can’t/won’t set a spot because of all the deer tracks, lol. I have found after about the 3rd trip they sorta leave it alone, or at least I can go a day without them tripping it. Those things are some kinda curious.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 01:50 AM

WB, tripped traps are usually a daily occurrence around here.

This season there have only been a few set off by deer thank goodness.

I probably shouldn't have said that.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 01:54 AM

If you’re just looking on the road or cross trails for tracks you're more than likely missing out on some prime set opportunities.

In his case there was very little sign on the road to the far left. The main travel corridor was ten yards off the road skirting the brush line.

Several secondary trails used only by coyotes intersected the main game trail.

[Linked Image]

Here is the one of the secondary coyote trails leading out of the brush.

[Linked Image]

Notice all the scat on the small hump at the intersection the two trails. A set was made right where the two trails meet.

[Linked Image]

The other coyote trail was only thirty yards away from the first and intersected the same main trail.

Notice the scat and trap to the far right. The calling card was left in place and the trap bedded on the downwind side.

[Linked Image]

Here is the result of those two sets.

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set - MB Coyote Urine - Coyotero

[Linked Image]

Male - Flat Set - MB Fox Urine - Winter Wolf

Here's a wide angle shot to show how far they were staying off the road.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Aix sponsa

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 02:37 AM

Great thread with useful information and great pictures

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 11:24 AM

Happy belated BD James, the buck in the fence set up looks good but I'd have some subtle sets further away from the dead buck zone too. Droppings, urine, and curiosity flats. BTS also.

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 01:55 PM

Originally Posted by Aix sponsa

Great thread with useful information and great pictures

X2

Posted By: 330-Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 02:59 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

If you’re just looking on the road or cross trails for tracks you're more than likely missing out on some prime set opportunities.

In his case there was very little sign on the road to the far left. The main travel corridor was ten yards off the road skirting the brush line.

Several secondary trails used only by coyotes intersected the main game trail.

[Linked Image]

Here is the one of the secondary coyote trails leading out of the brush.

[Linked Image]

Notice all the scat on the small hump at the intersection the two trails. A set was made right where the two trails meet.

[Linked Image]

The other coyote trail was only thirty yards away from the first and intersected the same main trail.

Notice the scat and trap to the far right. The calling card was left in place and the trap bedded on the downwind side.

[Linked Image]

Here is the result of those two sets.

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set - MB Coyote Urine - Coyotero

[Linked Image]

Male - Flat Set - MB Fox Urine - Winter Wolf

Here's a wide angle shot to show how far they were staying off the road.

[Linked Image]

Awesome photos

Posted By: Willy Firewood

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 03:05 PM

I really appreciate your time invested in documenting and explaining what you do. The reasoning is the best part! Thank you!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 03:14 PM

Morning All, Tejas that tight spot on the trail coming out of the brush looks like a good spot for a camouflaged snare.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 05:17 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Tejas, that tight spot on the trail coming out of the brush looks like a good spot for a camouflaged snare.

It sure would be MC.

The only problem is if I blow up that trail with a catch they will quit using it immediately.

If they switch trails on me, I am not likely to find the new one for lack of sign.

I could have put a blind set at each location and picked up those two coyotes pretty quick, but then the trails would be avoided indefinitely.

The two trails shown are coming from the direction of a bedding area.

I didn’t want to mess a good thing up.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 05:49 PM

Those south Tx coyotes act just like these palmetto coyotes I have here....lol.

When there's only stragglers left, a wise trapper must consider the ramifications of his actions.

Some great analytical observations Tejas!

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 06:32 PM

Happy Birthday

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/04/22 11:37 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Tejas another question for you,

how long after you pull up traps do you start seeing more coyotes migrating back in?

Once the population has been whittled down to a nub, filling the void will take considerable time.

Keep in mind that void extends well past the boundaries of the trapping area.

The coyotes trickle in gradually as they discover there are no dangers and many vacancies in prime territory.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/05/22 01:38 PM

Morning Tejas, I haven’t found that to be a problem...animals/coyotes caught in a foothold or snare or body grip trap( for other animals) will either venture around the animal or catch site and make another path/ trail out. After a while they might even travel back over the old trail. They will leave tracks and sign as they travel and then the trapper sets other traps in an attempt to catch them. What a strategy might be is to have other footholds in place near the area where you place the snare. As the best lure is the animal caught in the snare/ trap. Just thinking out loud here.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/05/22 02:34 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Morning Tejas, I haven’t found that to be a problem...animals/coyotes caught in a foothold or snare or body grip trap( for other animals) will either venture around the animal or catch site and make another path/ trail out. After a while they might even travel back over the old trail. They will leave tracks and sign as they travel and then the trapper sets other traps in an attempt to catch them. What a strategy might be is to have other footholds in place near the area where you place the snare. As the best lure is the animal caught in the snare/ trap. Just thinking out loud here.

Morning Sir!

Good coyote conversation MC.

While catch circles are coyote magnets in many places, coyote behavior around circles here is sketchy even on the best day. In many cases gang sets too close to a fresh circle will go cold as well. It’s guilt by association if you will.

Even though the two trails showed nothing but coyote tracks, I can’t ignore the fact that we have hoards of javelina in the area. Trails in dense cover like the ones shown are where they like to travel the most. Groups of twenty to thirty are a common occurrence. Because of their overwhelming numbers, using snares is just not practical here. As an example, if you set a snare on the perimeter, twenty javelina would pass there before the first coyote came by.

Here is one of the smaller groups.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/05/22 02:43 PM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Here’s a set you might try out if you get the opportunity.

There was an existing set on this side of the guard.

A coyote showed his appreciation by leaving a deluxe calling card at the bend on the opposite side.

There was very little traffic on the far side turn.

[Linked Image]

Both marks were scooped up and carefully placed at the existing set on a high traffic trail.

[Linked Image]

Some folks won’t use scat in the same area they found it thinking it will have better appeal on new turf.

[Linked Image]

The coyotes here didn’t get that memo.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/05/22 03:35 PM

The only problem is if I blow up that trail with a catch they will quit using it immediately.

If they switch trails on me, I am not likely to find the new one for lack of sign.

I could have put a blind set at each location and picked up those two coyotes pretty quick, but then the trails would be avoided indefinitely.

The two trails shown are coming from the direction of a bedding area.

I didn’t want to mess a good thing up.
[/quote]

TEJAS,

I think this is some of the best information in this thread for the guy wanting or needing to make a dent in a given population of coyotes.

You’re not just looking at catching the next coyote, you’re looking at catching multiple coyotes in days to come at a hot location.

Great information and thanks for sharing your knowledge with us!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/05/22 07:27 PM

Predator camo is hard to beat.

[Linked Image]

I’ll set the Inside bend where there is good sign every single time.

[Linked Image]

Life is hard in the South Texas Brush Country.

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set – G-Dog Urine - Coyotero

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/05/22 08:15 PM

Got a bad ear

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/06/22 02:15 PM

Good Sunday Morning Coyote Crew!

Originally Posted by trappergbus

The buck in the fence set up looks good but I'd have some subtle sets further away from the dead buck zone too.

Droppings, urine, and curiosity flats. BTS also.

That would be my normal MO Gary.

If I had a bigger population at this time I would definitely set up more like you suggested.

The low numbers and pressure really change the way I approach the situation.

I usually won’t blind set with really low numbers, especially when the only trails I have coming to the location are heavily used by deer.

There are not enough contestants left to have a group show up at the carcass, so I don’t set way back for coyotes waiting in the wings.

I try to keep in mind that the survivors are on high alert. Because of this, I don’t want several new smells at the location, and I certainly don’t want any old smells I’ve already used.

This is a tough sell with only a few potential takers. We will see how it plays out.

Four nights have passed since traps were bedded and only one coyote has made a pass by the carcass as far as I can tell.

With our normal coyote numbers, that deer wouldn't have made it past the first night.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/06/22 08:46 PM

Most folks only show their catches.

You don’t see many photos where the coyote wins the round.

There are misses, drive-bys, digs, calling cards, and then you have this.

[Linked Image]

No, it’s not a coon. I wish it was. This was the only coyote sign I saw on the roads while running the line yesterday.

The set was positioned with the trap on the upwind side of the attractant for the last two catches.

You can see where the coyote stood at the bottom of the photo on the downwind side of the set deciding on a game plan.

She did approach from the downwind side of the set, but pulled up short of the attractant. She then hit the upwind side and pulled up the trap with the swipe of a paw.

I chose the right angle for approach, but the wrong placement for the trap. What worked for the last two wise guys doesn't necessarily work for all of them.

Keep in mind digs will usually occur on the back or side of your set if your trap is on the downwind side of the attractant. Backing will not deter this mayhem in most cases.

The trap was rebedded on the downwind side of the attractant where it was for the first catch.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/06/22 10:33 PM

Might be time for ya to pull out for a few weeks.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 03:49 AM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Might be time for ya to pull out for a few weeks.

Heck Swamp, it’s just now getting fun.

Besides, what doesn’t kill them makes em’ stronger.

We can’t have that.

That wise guy will slip up there just like the last three did.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 04:32 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Might be time for ya to pull out for a few weeks.

Heck Swamp, it’s just now getting fun.

Besides, what doesn’t kill them makes em’ stronger.

We can’t have that.

That wise guy will slip up there just like the last three did.

Is all your trapping on one ranch? If so, you probably got some slow days ahead.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 12:27 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Most folks only show their catches.

You don’t see many photos where the coyote wins the round.

There are misses, drive-bys, digs, calling cards, and then you have this.

[Linked Image]

No, it’s not a coon. I wish it was. This was the only coyote sign I saw on the roads while running the line yesterday.

The set was positioned with the trap on the upwind side of the attractant for the last two catches.

You can see where the coyote stood at the bottom of the photo on the downwind side of the set deciding on a game plan.

She did approach from the downwind side of the set, but pulled up short of the attractant. She then hit the upwind side and pulled up the trap with the swipe of a paw.

I chose the right angle for approach, but the wrong placement for the trap. What worked for the last two wise guys doesn't necessarily work for all of them.

Keep in mind digs will usually occur on the back or side of your set if your trap is on the downwind side of the attractant. Backing will not deter this mayhem in most cases.

The trap was rebedded on the downwind side of the attractant where it was for the first catch.

How did you determine it was a female James?
My money is on you winning the overall chess match with her

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 01:49 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Is all your trapping on one ranch? If so, you probably got some slow days ahead.

I just trap for this ranch Swamp.

It’s been slow from the start, so nothing really new there.

A few real slow days on line don't bother me near as much as finding a few dead fawns in the fall.

I try my best to grind these coyotes into the ground. That is my objective.

Once the roads go stone cold and remain that way, then I will pull up the line.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 02:24 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

How did you determine it was a female?

I was wondering if someone would catch that.

Most of the time when I get unearthed traps, digs, or chaos in general it’s usually an adult female.

II can’t recall many tappers mentioning this on T-Man, but it certainly seems to be the case here.

It would be interesting to hear from some of the coyote men on this subject.

Who causes more mayhem on your line, adult males or females?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 05:38 PM

FEMALES !!! Every instance I’ve had a bad yote problem. That problem hasn’t went away until I’ve caught a mature female. Worked a job that they were killing goats. Caught nine yotes and got all confident that I had the problem solved. Let the traps soak another couple days for good measure. The day I was going to pull dead goat out side the fence. Pulled everything and set new subtle flat sets. Caught an old male that night and an old female in my crooked stick flat set in a tire track the second night. 10 years now since they have lost a goat.
Set a deer lease once where the owner was getting 5 and 6 yotes at the same time in his trail cam pics. Sign everywhere. 10 sets all dug out first night and for about the next three nights. Caught one young male and he was chewed up bad.
One frosty morning I could see a slight trail coming out of the bottom with yote tracks on it. Went down the trail to a bend and made a big dirt hole. Then backed up each way where the yote would first see this and put in trail set. Next morning had an old ugly female in a trail set. After that no more dig ups and killed 13 more yotes in 12 days.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 05:41 PM

The males here I feel are much easier to catch. When I set up an area with established yotes the mature males seem to be among the first caught. Bullies imo. Usually in a urine/gland type set. Old females with worn or no teeth are my “trophies “.
Killem till they cry momma Tejas!!!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 06:33 PM

Thanks Good post Rob!
When I took instructions from Vern Howey in Wyoming he stressed that when a pair of coyotes responded to a predator call, the female would always trail the male. Vern said if you want to reduce your coyote population kill her first as the male would be easier to catch when trapping. Darn females! Lol

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 06:46 PM

Well that would make sense as to why I catch mostly males…I’m getting the stupid ones, lol.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 07:55 PM

I would agree mostly female trouble maker's,I did have one big male that was a big time problem child finally nailed him,he had all of his toes which really surprised me.Got him at a blind set 3' from a set,I had 2 blind sets just out from the original set along with other flat sets in the close quarters no place to hang a snare either.He fought that trap HARD!!!!When I walked up to him,he laid down and stared at me never moving,he knew he had lost the chess game.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/07/22 11:07 PM

Did you reset the same spot? if so please post up the new set . I am curious to see the trap placement this is good schooling for me.I ran into this last week myself but I did not have enough time left to play the game my week off came to an end.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/08/22 02:11 AM

I pulled a little bait and switch to get this gal off the road and to the set.

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set - G-Dog Urine - JL #1

With the set on the trail downwind of the road I had to have a way of stop any coyote traveling upwind.
A small shot of urine in the middle of the two track did just that’
It stopped her long enough to find the flat set.

[Linked Image]

I always watch where coyotes enter and exit the sendero while in the deer stand.
This is one of those locations. Notice the trail behind the circle.

[Linked Image]

Chew sticks are always picked up and used at other sets.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/08/22 02:58 AM

Another vote for the pesky females, they can give a guy grey hair for sure!

Same as Rick though, I caught a big male a few weeks back that was giving me fits and he also fought the trap really hard. He chewed on the trap so hard he looked like an MMA fighter after five rounds!

Thanks for the tip on the chew stick TEJAS! I've relocated quite a bit stuff from a catch circle but never a chew stick, they would be covered with some good smells.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/08/22 03:11 AM

Lots of good info

Last year I caught 4 coyotes, 2 females and 2 males I believe
This year 4 males.
I know for a fact that there is at least 1 female that worked one of the sets because I have her squatting and marking it on game cam video.

I value catching the females more as I know I am eliminating more than 1 coyote by taking out a female.

Are there any tips or opinions of what can help a person catch more females?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/08/22 03:42 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Are there any tips or opinions of what can help a person catch more females?

Here is the Cliffs Notes version BT.

If you show them a set/lure that promotes digging, you are most likely giving them a big advantage.

I'd stick with open pattern flats and let the coyote work the set on her terms, not yours.

Don’t overdo it on the attractants whether it is visual and/or olfactory.

Show her something she would expect to see at that location.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/08/22 03:52 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Are there any tips or opinions of what can help a person catch more females?

Here is the Cliffs Notes version BT.

If you show them a set/lure that promotes digging, you are most likely giving them a big advantage.

I'd stick with open pattern flats and let the coyote work the set on her terms, not yours.

Don’t overdo it on the attractants whether it is visual and/or olfactory.

Show her something she would expect to see at that location.

Tejas,
This may be a question that doesn't mean much on the ranch your trapping (with low coyote numbers), but how many misses and failures to commit are you seeing?

Miss = coyote steps within 6" of trap, many times all around trap, but never steps on pan.

Failure to Commit = coyote approaches, but no closer than about 12" to trap, many times 3 or 4 feet out.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 02:31 AM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

This may be a question that doesn't mean much on the ranch your trapping (with low coyote numbers), but how many misses and failures to commit are you seeing?

Miss = coyote steps within 6" of trap, many times all around trap, but never steps on pan.

Failure to Commit = coyote approaches, but no closer than about 12" to trap, many times 3 or 4 feet out.

I have my fair share of misses that’s for sure Swamp. As for a percentage I don’t really know.

It’s not the misses with a few tracks near the pan that bother me; it’s the sets that look like a coyote fiesta was held and everybody made it home safe and sound.

Overall, a miss doesn’t concern me too much because the coyote is showing willingness to work the set. Even if she doesn’t step on the pan, I have other fun sets nearby just in case she wants to try her luck again.. She will roll snake eyes soon enough.

For me, a set’s construction or look is all about helping the attractant(s) create more foot traffic. An open pattern does just that in my situation.

I've found that the more you attempt to restrict a coyote’s movement, the more avoidance you will encounter. That is what I have noticed here.

On a place with no pressure, they may very well walk in on any set you show them.

I don’t have a lot of commitment issues early in the season. Drive-bys or total avoidance becomes more of a problem as the population is whittled down to the last of the bad hombres.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 03:11 AM

How many consecutive days have you been working that line? How many more days b4 you pull?

Posted By: Willy Firewood

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 04:30 AM

I really appreciate the discussion here. When a Coyote visits one of my sets and leaves a pile about a foot back I always feel insulted.

My wife suggested that if you want to catch females, show them something that sparkles. I can say that I tried it only once - and it worked. Not sure who was caught.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 12:45 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

How many consecutive days have you been working that line? How many more days b4 you pull?

I’ve been at it for little over a month now Swamp. It feels like a lot longer.

Like I mentioned on the prior page, once the roads go stone cold and remain that way, then I will pull up the line.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 01:16 PM

A lot of trappers roll upon on a coyote and immediately guess at the age and sex.

If you just pulled up to this contestant what would your two guesses be?

How many years old is this coyote, and is it a male or female?

[Linked Image]

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 01:46 PM

Looks old wish I had a different angle of the face,my guess from what I can see is 8 to 10 year old veteran dog and male gender,but I need another face angle.Without seeing the teeth it's always just a guess!

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 02:00 PM

I’m going to say 7 or 8 years old and I believe it’s a female, from what I can see the snout looks a little too narrow for a male.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 02:10 PM

Here’s a portrait for a better look.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 02:17 PM

I'll take a stab at it and say it's an 8-10 year old female that's had a hard life.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 04:33 PM

Better picture I now say a female that has seen a lot in her life time,but now it's lights out for her.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 04:48 PM

I'd say older female, but I'd guess younger than you guys, just because I don't figure many coyotes live to ten. Without seeing teeth it is hard to say, but just a guess I would say around five.

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 08:02 PM

Female six or seven been thur a few battles.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/09/22 11:01 PM

Going to say 5yo female that had a smart mother that taught her well

Probably turn out to be a 2yo male

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 02:33 AM

This old gal ignored six other sets and went for a changeup made on the seventh trap just hours before.

A coyote this old didn’t get that way by making bad decisions.

In some cases, you have to show them a set and attractant they wouldn’t think twice about approaching, even on ground they know is dangerous.

[Linked Image]

I offset the trap to her left for obvious reasons.

Coyotes probably don’t get too much older than this.

[Linked Image]

Notice that all the incisors are gone as well

[Linked Image]

Even with her wore out choppers, she looked to be in good condition.

What would the Coyote Crew guess her age at after seeing the " Rest of the Story"?

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 02:51 AM

Probably was the female of the pair Noah had on the boat

Probably 12

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 02:58 AM

Okay, now seeing her teeth I would guess 10ish, but I've never had a coyote officially aged, so it is still a guess. As you said though, probably about as old as coyotes generally get.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 03:16 AM

With the gritty sand mixed in with her food wear down the teeth quicker still guessing 9 to 10 years old,she was a true veteran,congrats probably raised 60 to 70 pups over her time on this planet.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 01:08 PM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Not a bad way to start the day.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 01:11 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Not a bad way to start the day.

[Linked Image]

Yep agreed.Good morning

Posted By: steeltraps

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 01:47 PM

Good job Tejas. Old. Is what we are after!!! Enjoying this thread And I enjoyed Swamp Wolfd as well. I have very poor service here. Have to go 7 miles out of the way. BUT i check in and view these treads every few days. Keep up good work ! Old female. Are my favorite to catch too!

Attached picture 725C373F-1E2D-4A35-93F8-459464F38E9A.jpeg

Attached picture 725C373F-1E2D-4A35-93F8-459464F38E9A.jpeg

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/10/22 02:37 PM

Good to see you checking in ST,that one looks like an 8 year old coyote,anything older than 5 years is a true veteran and has been through a lot and seen a lot.Look forward to more of your ride alongs when you get to another location with better service.

Posted By: DugK

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 11:55 AM

This is such a great thread!
Here is my “Boone and Crockett” of coyotes,
[Linked Image]

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 12:40 PM

Old for a reason.Nice catch.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 12:40 PM

Nice work on the old timers ST and Dug!

It was a busy day here yesterday. I didn’t have a lot of spare time time to post up

Thanks for taking up the slack fellas!

Good Stuff!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 12:45 PM

Here's a photo taken of a recent set site I thought you folks would be interested in.

The worked set is just out of the frame to the left.

What does the Coyote Crew think happened here?

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 12:59 PM

I think a male came by, didn't like your set, peed on that tuft of grass and kick backed or whatever you call that scratching they do sometimes after peeing or pooping

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 01:57 PM

Possibly sprung the trap and tore up that spot getting out of Dodge.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 01:59 PM

Agreed looks like a kick back,can't catch them all,but it's fun playing a chess game with them.I think if you kill 85 to 90% that's about a good as a person can do most of the time,any thoughts on the %'s.Coyotes and cockroaches will be the last things to be on planet earth.

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 02:01 PM

Mad because you caught his female in the nearby set....

Posted By: 330-Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 02:04 PM

Originally Posted by rick olson

Agreed looks like a kick back,can't catch them all,but it's fun playing a chess game with them.I think if you kill 85 to 90% that's about a good as a person can do most of the time,any thoughts on the %'s.Coyotes and cockroaches will be the last things to be on planet earth.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 02:13 PM

Nice picture Texas, was this near a remake set? As it looks like another coyote found something it was interested in and marked it and scratched back.

Posted By: turkn8rtrapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 04:47 PM

Looking at the impression it looks like something like a raptor attacked and took away a rattler.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 05:48 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Nice picture Texas, was this near a remake set? As it looks like another coyote found something it was interested in and marked it and scratched back.

No Sir MChewk, it's a set that has been worked but hasn’t hit yet. The trap is not guarding the tuft of grass.

You can see the digging at the set in the top left corner of the photo. Sorry for the confusion. I wanted to show a close up of the mark..

I will see if I can find a wide angle shot of the crime scene as well

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/11/22 10:11 PM

Here's the location:

The pan is at the six o’clock upwind of the attractant. The set was adjusted when the contestant(s) at this location showed a tendency to work the upwind side.

There wasn’t a single track on the downwind side. That’s the reason for the reverse set.

Wile E. came in facing the viewer at the twelve o’clock hour upwind of the trap. He dug a narrow depression extending out to the left of the tuft of grass.

The prior photo shows the marks on the right side of the grass.

There were no calling cards left that I could tell.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Carolina Foxer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 12:36 AM

Cool pictures.

I still can’t understand why every set doesn’t have at least 2 bridger 3 sized traps though lol. In a kill em all, tricky coyote scenario every set i made would have 2 or 3 traps buried.

Again, very cool pics.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 02:10 AM

Tejas,
Those coyotes are not interested in your offering.

They are looking for your traps......

Posted By: la4wd54

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 02:31 AM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Tejas,
Those coyotes are not interested in your offering.

They are looking for your traps......

They are definitely playing the game.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 03:54 AM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Tejas,
Those coyotes are not interested in your offering.
They are looking for your traps......

My apologies Swamp, I realized that particular photo was taken after I made the adjustment to the upwind side.

The trap was guarding the downwind position when it was hit. Unfortunately, the coyote made it to the attractant.

I don’t believe the depressions at ten and two are digs.

Posted By: 8117 Steve R

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 11:32 AM

Rolling

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 01:33 PM

Originally Posted by Carolina Foxer

Cool pictures.

I still can’t understand why every set doesn’t have at least 2 bridger 3 sized traps though lol. In a kill em all, tricky coyote scenario every set i made would have 2 or 3 traps buried.

Thanks CF!

I certainly understand the logic and effectiveness behind multiple traps per set.

The most is made of every opportunity with the amount of foot traffic given.

I can also appreciate the effectiveness of gang setting as well as creating more foot traffic.

Here’s part of a five coyote gang set catch from March of last year. There are four single sets holding four coyotes.

[Linked Image]

In the end, each method has its pros and cons.. Both approaches are a highly effective means of achieving the same result.

As far as trap selection is concerned, I think I’ll stick with my MB 550’s for now

Posted By: Carolina Foxer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 02:03 PM

Sweet deal. Long as they’re caught its all good.

Again thanks for the thread, its a good read.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/12/22 09:28 PM

This location had traffic on the outside bend as well as the game trail that crossed the road.

The set was made in the trail with the attractant just off to the side. The wind is blowing from left to right..

[Linked Image]

Female – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – Coyotero

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 02:58 PM

Good Sunday Morning Coyote Crew!

Here is a little mayhem from yesterday.

A new arrival showed up on the senderos a few days back. It looks to be a big male

The first night he passed up a multitude of sets. On the second night he put his best paw forward.

It appears that he started fishing his way toward the set until he hit the loose jaw. Then he left a little something to remember him by.

There was no back or side approach.Two catches have been made at this set.The trap here has not been unearthed until this time.

[Linked Image]

Here is the set and adjustment.

The scat was moved back away from the pan to prompt the coyote to approach closer.

The urine was scooped up and placed on either side of the poop.

The tufts of grass on the left and right of the set hold a very small amount of bait and just a little urine..

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 06:02 PM

Where is your trap in the above pic?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 07:07 PM

Originally Posted by Tony1967

Where is your trap in the above pic?

I marked the pan in the original photo for ya’ Tony.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 07:21 PM

Last night I pinched a non-target that traveled all the way from South of the Rio Grande to get here.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Bruce T

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 08:03 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Last night I pinched a non-target that traveled all the way from South of the Rio Grande to get here.

[Linked Image]

Human foot print.....illegal immigrant?

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 09:29 PM

Tejas do you have a neighbor with a kid educating coyotes ? I’ve moved in on educated coyotes before but usually don’t have pre trap shy or set shy coyotes come to me. I did have a couple of diggers show up a few years ago , only to find out a kid two sections over had started trying to trap . I ended up catching two different coyotes with broken toes . Life is hard enough without help .

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/13/22 11:06 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Last night I pinched a non-target that traveled all the way from South of the Rio Grande to get here.

[Linked Image]

What are the odds? I bet that ole boy marked his shorts when that 550 went off! Lol

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/14/22 12:43 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Tony1967

Where is your trap in the above pic?

I marked the pan in the original photo for ya’ Tony.

Thank you! I’m not good with flat sets so all help is appreciated!!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/14/22 11:53 AM

Originally Posted by Tony1967

Thank you! I’m not good with flat sets so all help is appreciated!!

I’m more than happy to Help Tony. I will try to post up a few more set photos to give you a better reference.

Keep in mind I backed away from the main attractant in the above photo for obvious reasons.

As a general rule, I would suggest you crowd the attractant on most flat sets

Originally Posted by J Harrell

What are the odds? I bet that ole boy marked his shorts when that 550 went off! Lol

JH, the same thing happened just a few years back. I bet that fella thought the biggest rattler in South Texas just got him!

Originally Posted by Golf ball

Tejas, do you have a neighbor with a kid educating coyotes? I ended up catching two different coyotes with broken toes. Life is hard enough without help.

There's no way to know for sure G.

There are probably a lot more adults educating coyotes than young folks nowadays.

I know I’ve certainly provided my share of Coyote Ed. 101. At least I do my best to clean up my own mess.

I’m quite positive there are certain coyotes that play hit and run. They pop in and out to pick up groceries but don’t stay here full time.

Those coyotes tend to survive the longest. That could possibly be the case with this wise guy.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/14/22 04:58 PM

When I started trapping here the coyotes had all but wiped out the grey fox population.

In the last ten years I have only called up one fox in this area.

I couldn’t help but wonder if I might be able to kill enough coyotes to help the grey fox make a small comeback in this part of the brush.

Just a few years ago we had our first litter of kits born around the camp area. Earlier this season I called in a mating pair up to five yards.

It’s a great feeling knowing you’ve made a positive impact on the wildlife in the area you trap.

Greys are such a cool little critter. They will always get a hall pass here.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 12:56 AM

That's awesome TEJAS!

When I was a kid we had a huge population of both Grey and Red fox, then around the mid 80's the coyotes really started showing up and the fox population went downhill fast.

It's a rare occasion to see a fox anymore around here and when you do it's usually around a town or close to houses where they are somewhat safe from the coyotes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 01:48 PM

Here is a comparison of different set finishes the Coyote Crew might find interesting.

I used three different tools for this comparison.

[Linked Image]

The following photos were taken at a remake set.

A lot of folks that are familiar with old school trapping techniques have probably heard of glazing.

To me, glazing is the dirt equivalent of troweling concrete.

The convex cow rib is fairly wide, but not a lot touches the surface at the same time.

This gives the set a layered appearance.

[Linked Image]

The side of a sifter produces a much soother finish if that's the look you are after.

[Linked Image]

The top two finishes should be gone over very lightly with a whisk broom for the best look.

When it’s all said and done, a gloved hand followed by a whisk broom gives me the best overall finished look in the sand.

[Linked Image]

The smooth look with texture blends well.

Notice how the last photo has more of a flat appearance across the set.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 01:56 PM

I would be interested to hear what the Coyote Crew uses to finish their sets with.

Do you like a finished look, or do you prefer a rough appearance?

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 02:02 PM

The art of blending and aging coyote sets is one step to becoming a top canine trapper,being a true outdoorsman is also another thing to get to the top of their game.But remember the more you learn,there will always be more to learn,pay attention to every little detail and never get to the point you think you know everything.If you get to that point of knowing it all you are loosing ground fast.Life is an open box,but never ignore what's outside of the box.Good trapping my friends.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 03:05 PM

I find that sifting a thin layer of dirt from waist level gives me a nice weathered look that I like. I also often grab some grass and rub it between my gloves hands and let the small pieces float down over the whole set. The wind sometimes will blow the grass around, but it makes the set look natural to me.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 03:27 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I would be interested to hear what the Coyote Crew uses to finish their sets with.

Do you like a finished look, or do you prefer a rough appearance?

I left the sifter at home for years. Preferring to sift thru my fingers for a rough look, BUT.....

....have since started using a wheel brush (stiff bristles) due to snapping traps on my already sore hands and fingers. I like the results I can get with the brush. Coyotes dont seem to care.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 03:54 PM

I like a finished look. Never have been a fan of the rough and torn up look. I've seen a variety of looks that trappers swear by and have success with. That said, trappers put a lot of effort in how the set looks to a person. So does the appearance really matter to a coyote? Then think about the time most coyotes are active. Research shows from midnight to 5 a.m. I know they have good eyesight but does the appearance really matter in the dark? Just some things I think about.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 04:48 PM

Good point silky. I like a natural appearance for my initial sets but for remakes I rough things up pretty well.
In fact, at times I’ve dug out small holes with a steel stake and pulled dirt towards the blended trap. Think skunk diggings as far as hole sizes.
Guys it all works I really think it really depends on the INDIVIDUAL coyote.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 07:03 PM

I have a different experience and opinion with activity of predators over the years. Not in research, but from years in the field. I have found that after laying up most of the day predators are off hunting and moving about by dusk. I find they work aggressively to find a meal from dusk until midnight or so...

After their initial hunting and running about if they are successful early on, they may lay about a bit or become vocal and social to some extent speaking about coyotes. Then if not satisfied with getting enough to eat they will resume their hunt and travels until the pre -dawn hours. Weather, temps, time of year and moonlight affects this activity to a great degree at times.

For set finishing I am middle of the road. I like a balance of both smooth over the trap bed and some ruffage around the fringe. I like to make some debris kickbacks on some hole sets. It depends upon the terrain I am working as well as the ground conditions. Sod, tilled soil, sand or loam ground the set finishes will vary. The type of sets will vary greatly as well at times. Early on dirt holes, then flat sets and walk-through sets. When needed scent post sets are added if I feel they are necessary.

Make your sets blend with the environment in those conditions but make them inviting or completely blended.

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 07:56 PM

Great read. thanks everyone.
Always made my own sifter.
Some time back I switched to diamond wire mesh for the screen. Larger holes.
I "think" they like it better
I "know" I like it better.

Posted By: Seldom

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/15/22 09:13 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

So does the appearance really matter to a coyote? Then think about the time most coyotes are active. Research shows from midnight to 5 a.m. I know they have good eyesight but does the appearance really matter in the dark?

IMHO based on personal experience, absolutely! The lower the coyote population the more it matters. The most recent examples of “does appearance matter” is when I was testing gland lures. I’ve never used gland lures before and of course that’s 1/2 the reason I was testing them. At two test sites I stuck a small, stick (aprox 1” x 8”) in the ground at the test. I have lengthy videos of coyote avoidance that was all visual due to their body language. I had to remove those sticks in order to obtain a truer response to the gland lures because the difference of attraction/avoidance with and without the stick was like light & day!

These observations makes me wonder why I see certain trapper/lure makers videos making sets exactly like I’ve just described (bringing in sticks) and supposedly making catches. In fact, a couple of these same people’s lures were used on my sticks!!!!

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/16/22 03:30 AM

I trap predator control in Central Texas with what most would consider low coyote density. I trap my ranches about 9 months a year. I take the summer off unless I have a killer making kills.

I snare year round.

In my county, we have two full time government trappers and a couple guys like me. Our coyotes are spooky deluxe. I catch 80% in snares and 20% in foot traps. I hardly ever call for coyotes anymore in my county.

I might make a dozen dirt holes a year. Mostly in the fall when pups are being kicked out. I put a natural set nearby each dirt hole set. The natural set makes more catches.

I set a lot of t-bone sets. They are very subtle. Not showy. Very little if any guiding. It is what I have confidence in. I had one t-bone set go 87 days untouched by me… then I had a catch.

I used a little bait in the t-bone, a q-tip amount of mild gland lure, and a squirt of coyote urine on the grass backing. I’m sure the urine smell was gone by the end, but the other scents stayed enough to make a catch.

What a challenging game. I have enjoyed this thread. Keep it up everyone!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/16/22 02:37 PM

It’s good to see some astute observations, insight, and coyote conversation being shared here.

From a visual standpoint, I think it would be safe to say that a most coyotes will pick up on soil disturbances along their travel way.

I would bet that stark differences in the ground’s appearance do not go unnoticed by wary eyes that are so close to the ground.

It’s not like it's a new object on the scene. It’s a change in the scene itself.

A slight change in the ground’s look probably doesn’t draw near the attention.

That's where good blending and duff comes into play.

Pressure can change things in a hurry. A wolfer must roll with the punches and adjust accordingly.

Even individual coyotes can warrant a whole new strategy.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/16/22 03:21 PM

Tejas, there was a guy that showed me you could age a set and settle disturbances by spraying area with water. I've never tried it because I was trapping for fur during cold months and didn't want any moisture over set. He would collect water out of natural sources and wet wet down surface over bedded trap and a small area around set to blend. Not sure if you've heard of it or given it a try but it seems you like to experiment with different things.

Posted By: la4wd54

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/16/22 05:52 PM

Originally Posted by Centex Trapper

I trap predator control in Central Texas with what most would consider low coyote density. I trap my ranches about 9 months a year. I take the summer off unless I have a killer making kills.

I snare year round.

In my county, we have two full time government trappers and a couple guys like me. Our coyotes are spooky deluxe. I catch 80% in snares and 20% in foot traps. I hardly ever call for coyotes anymore in my county.

I might make a dozen dirt holes a year. Mostly in the fall when pups are being kicked out. I put a natural set nearby each dirt hole set. The natural set makes more catches.

I set a lot of t-bone sets. They are very subtle. Not showy. Very little if any guiding. It is what I have confidence in. I had one t-bone set go 87 days untouched by me… then I had a catch.

I used a little bait in the t-bone, a q-tip amount of mild gland lure, and a squirt of coyote urine on the grass backing. I’m sure the urine smell was gone by the end, but the other scents stayed enough to make a catch.

What a challenging game. I have enjoyed this thread. Keep it up everyone!

You have just described my yearly routine and experiences in Central Texas also. I'm out of San Saba county but have ranches in about 4 surrounding counties. It's a chess game for sure.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/16/22 11:11 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Tejas, there was a guy that showed me you could age a set and settle disturbances by spraying area with water. I've never tried it because I was trapping for fur during cold months and didn't want any moisture over set. He would collect water out of natural sources and wet wet down surface over bedded trap and a small area around set to blend. Not sure if you've heard of it or given it a try but it seems you like to experiment with different things.

I played around with that a few years back SPC.

The sand takes on a whole different appearance once it gets wet then dries. It forms a crust on top that doesn’t match the rest of the powder dry ground surrounding the set. It looks good, it just doesn’t match. It would work great if the ground was already wet.

I have several ways to dry blend and age the set that will produce different looks. The wind adds the finishing touches by the time the sun goes down.

It's not so much that I like trying new stuff, as it is a necessity if I want to keep killing coyotes.

The "A" game for week two is not the same as week four. It changes all the time, because they do.

The reason I use all flat sets now is because the coyotes forced me to do so. That was a good thing.

Posted By: Willy Firewood

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 05:40 AM

Great ridealong and singalong!

You leave out those circles with an X in them for Wile E. just like the roadrunner. Do you get them at ACME?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 12:44 PM

Originally Posted by Willy Firewood

Do you leave out those circles with an X in them for Wile E. just like the roadrunner?

Of course I do Willie! How else would he know where to step? Geez……

I believe I got a bad batch of X’s. As you can see they are not working too well

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 01:45 PM

When it comes to mayhem at sets it’s hard to point at one thing and say that's the cause.

I usually don’t have too many problems until set lines and locations are pinpointed. When catch circles start popping up like mushrooms it gets ugly. Once the element of surprise is lost the K-9 Olympic Games really get underway.

They certainly win their fair share of rounds here and there, but very few beat the gang set odds.

Yesterday I had a coyote run a short road line making an upwind approach and dig on the backside of a set. He continued down the road passing up set number two, then stopped to work the third set that was identical in looks to the first. I have little doubt that the coyote saw a carbon copy of the set he just did a back door excavation on, and was going to do a repeat performance.

The sneak probably would have made it past that set as well had it not been for the fact that the trap was set up 180° specifically to snag upwind workin’ wise guys.

Instead of giving an encore performance, Wile E. exited stage left.

[Linked Image]

Had he beat that set and continued his same line of travel there were two more additional sets on that same road waiting for him.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 03:09 PM

Tejas have you noticed a difference between male versus female captives when using fox urine compared to coyote urine ? Have you ever tried wolf urine ?

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 03:12 PM

Good stuff....get em Tejas!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 03:35 PM

Great job on the GANGSETTING Tejas!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 05:20 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

Have you noticed a difference between male versus female catches when using fox urine compared to coyote urine ?

Yes

It fluctuates from year to year between the two G.

Here are the results from this year's limited sample.

Fox caught more juveniles than coyote.

Fox took the same number of adult males as coyote.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Coyote snagged three times as many adult females as fox.

Coyote picked up all adults except for one..

Coyote had more overall catches between the two.

(MB urines were used in both cases.)

Keep in mind that the present population and time of year could have a big effect on those numbers.

Keeping records certainly slows you down on the line, but I find it’s time well spent.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 06:16 PM

I like your attention to those kind of details.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 08:33 PM

I've not found a good source of quality wolf urine, and about all the wolf trappers out west, and I think Alaska, pretty much use either fox or coyote urine for the same reasons. I know quite a few who use fox, but I've never used it myself, since fox are very rare here. Good coyote urine seems to work equally well for coyote and wolf anyways. I've even had them mark places where I have urinated. I've tried using my own a few times when I either didn't have coyote urine or it was frozen in the bottle, but haven't caught anything on it. I know guys up north have though.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/17/22 08:53 PM

Sterling Fur Co in Ohio sells wolf urine. I have never smelled or sampled it so I can't speak of its quality. You may want to give Keith Winkler a call and ask that question.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/18/22 01:09 AM

I have not found any top of the line wolf urine yet,Bob Jameson has excellent urine,Marty Smith sells excellent urine,Ardel Grawe has excellent urine,Wayne Derick has excellent urine Andy Weiser had excellent urine so there numerous good source for coyote and fox urine,wolf is the tough one there are some out there,but not really consistent.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/18/22 01:33 PM

This big coyote looked guilty of something.

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – JL#1

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/18/22 08:07 PM

Here’s a question or the Coyote Crew.

When it comes to lure usage at a set, what number would you be and why?

[Linked Image]

The lure is on mini Popsicle sticks. I placed the 22 cartridges there for scale.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/18/22 08:15 PM

2 or 3, because we don't have a super high population and if setting on fresh sign it will probably be at least a week before they come back by, combined with cold temps I use a little more. Also depends on the lure, I have a couple milder or food based lures that might get 3 to 4. Might go with 1 if I figure on having visitors the first night or two or in milder temps without rain.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/18/22 08:30 PM

Personally, the amount used would depend upon the time of the year, temps, weather and if it will be used as a stand alone or with another odor or lure. Consideration if the area may have been worked over previously or possibly nearby, by the time I started to set my line there.. I don't start from the bell, just too early and fur isn't reasonably ready. The fair weather trappers start early always around here it seems. That means by the time I start 3-4 weeks later they have had some education.

I am a No.1 stick or No. 2 stick lure use man for a large part. In some conditions and circumstances, I may use far less then shown. In extremely cold temps No. 3 stick is a good Gob of good lure. A good set presentation and location selection allow for far less lure use as well.

Lure usage amounts can vary due to the variables in how a product is built, how good are the ingredients and their percentage in a lure and its overall age time?

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:08 AM

I'm a 3 because I only get free time to trap in the winter and our winters usually have a lot of rain with freeze thaw conditions.

I like to lure a set and stay away from it with confidence that I have enough lure to withstand the weather. Also try to place my lure with some protection from the elements when possible.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:26 AM

I’m a number 1 guy most of the time. I dunk a match stick size stick in the lure a 1/2 inch. What stays on the stick goes on my set.

But I often use two lures 4-6 inches apart at a set. It is just a little thing I often do sometimes.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:33 AM

I see you use you use Minnesota red too.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:46 AM

I'm a #3 guy and heavy on urine a ounce or more per set,not every set will get urine usually have 2 to 4 sets within 30 to 40 yards always gang setting it's the only way to catch doubles and sometimes a triple,only had 2 of those,I love driving up to doubles or better!

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:48 AM

Im a #5 guy. Always have been....no matter the lure whether store bought or one of my lures.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:59 AM

I would say 2-3 is what I have been using because I figure as good as a coyote's nose is it should not take more than that

In for the survey results

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 09:56 AM

I use 1 or 2 if you use more it not very good lure.A little bit goes a long ways think about how good a coyote can smell.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 12:12 PM

Len you are very correct regarding most predator's sense of smell. Too much lure at times can have a negative effect initially and put some animals on alert when too much is applied. Most trappers I know that are not seasoned trappers all tend to use way too much lure. "More is better philosophy" is practiced all too often. Natural baits on the other hand can be used more liberally without worry generally.

As the season progresses this trend gets magnified and really has an effect upon a predator's response to your lure in high trapping pressure areas with low animal populations. Moderate to small amounts of lure usually get me confident and curious responses from the first night. Each area can have different results obviously but when in doubt use less and see your results.

Just keep in mind when you are around another dog and return to your home how does your pet react to the subtle odor of that other animal's body oil and dander that may have brushed upon your pant leg or shoes...!!!!

Compounded lure odors are significantly stronger than an animal's natural body odor.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 03:28 PM

I agree with Bob. Too much lure often puts my coyotes off. I have seen where they stand off a ways when I have out too much lure. It may just be that they can satisfy their curiosity from five feet away. But I need to get them all the way to my trap pan.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 03:34 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

Too much lure at times can have a negative effect initially and put some animals on alert when too much is applied.

Most trappers I know that are not seasoned trappers all tend to use way too much lure.

Natural baits on the other hand can be used more liberally without worry generally.

As the season progresses this trend gets magnified and really has an effect upon a predator's response to your lure in high trapping pressure areas with low animal populations.

Moderate to small amounts of lure usually get me confident and curious responses from the first night.

Good post Mr. J.

Most of us have seen the negative effects of a hot catch circle and how much avoidance they can cause.

I believe that behavior is primarily triggered by an olfactory overload, not a visual from ground disturbance.

It stands to reason that the application of too much lure can have the same effect

In either case, the coyote doesn’t need to get close to the smell because it’s slapping him in the face from twenty yards away!

When a coyote passes a string of sets dressed up with too much lure, I can’t help but think that could raise a red flag and easily bounce a smart coyote. I can also see where using too much lure in a gang set situation could cause big time avoidance.

How much lure is really needed when the coyote will pass within inches of my set because I am right on location? Just a little dab will do in most situations.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 03:36 PM

I will throw this out as an observation...it has been said before...how much odor is produced when a skunk sprays in the wild? Or what about a carcass ...deer gets shot runs off and dies...there is lots of odor there and the critters come readily. I know there are differences between the scenarios but again it makes a trapper wonder...why?

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 04:50 PM

Singular big decomposing odors in nature like a deer, cow, skunk essence etc. are vastly different odors than many of the formulated materials used in trapping. Over time some predators can become wary of many such odors particularly a few weeks into the season. Just the natural learning process and evolution that occurs each season for the smart ones.

Even the reactions and curiosity to the big odors will cause many animals to be cautious and it may take some time for some to commit to come close and feed on that opportunity.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 05:42 PM

Agreed but I’m sure you have caught wild canines in catch circles after catching a skunk...I remember accidentally spilling a bottle of gland lure at a set...next day had a big coyote. Never know...and no set answers...I guess...lol

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 08:10 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Agreed but I’m sure you have caught wild canines in catch circles after catching a skunk...I remember accidentally spilling a bottle of gland lure at a set...next day had a big coyote. Never know...and no set answers...I guess...lol

Of course there is no answer set in stone MC, but there is a somewhat predictable outcome in certain circumstances.

High pressure vs. low, and high population vs. low are at opposite ends of the spectrum as far as behavior and tactics are concerned.

Anything is possible in a high density and/or low pressure atmosphere.

Using too much lure and using a lure too much can cause the same type of avoidance.

When you combine those two things you can educate a bunch of coyotes in a hurry.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 08:31 PM

I realize that Tejas just playing devils advocate... what’s the old saying in trapping ...never say never and never say always.
Your post is right on the money....attempt to be subtle, leave very little human scent and sign behind and set them trails up blind. Natural is best...until it isn’t.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 08:37 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Agreed but I’m sure you have caught wild canines in catch circles after catching a skunk...I remember accidentally spilling a bottle of gland lure at a set...next day had a big coyote. Never know...and no set answers...I guess...lol

I had a friend who dropped a bottle of Gusto in a rock road and it shattered. So he set a trap right there. In a pile of buckwheat hulls. It was supposed to snow that night so he didn't try to cover or blend the buckwheat hulls, just spread them over a couple foot area, bedded a trap in them and covered with buckwheat hulls. It didn't snow, but when he came back he had an adult female wolf that had walked up and stepped in a pile of buckwheat hulls in the middle of a black rock road, with a WHOLE BOTTLE of Gusto dumped there.

Yet I've never had canines come close to Gusto except when it has been opened and then aged at least a year to mellow. Attracted to and circle thirty feed out, yes, but not come close enough to have worked a set. Sometimes animals are individuals, and you will get the outlier that will make a liar of you when you state absolutes.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/19/22 11:24 PM

Well...I reckon Im the odd man out...lol

Im a #5 lure user, but I use bait only at most sets....no lure.

I still dig a bunch of dirtholes. Probably 75% of all sets.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 01:54 AM

Swamp, you mentioned you use bait by itself, but you make a lot of hole sets.

Do you use just lure down the hole at some of those sets, or is your lure usage mostly at flat, post, or toy sets?

Posted By: Albeja Salvaje

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 05:07 AM

Tejas,
I have read all your posts and have a question on new traps. I just got in 2 dozen mb 550's. Should I degrease them or just go set. not really wanting to do the dip wax route. What do you do?
Thanks in advance

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 11:37 AM

By gosh, this is one of the best threads I have followed in a long long time. Thanks to everyone who has contributed.

Mac

Posted By: garymc

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 12:53 PM

Originally Posted by Mac

By gosh, this is one of the best threads I have followed in a long long time. Thanks to everyone who has contributed.

Mac

I’m with Mac. Awesome educational thread. Thanks to everyone for the discussion and information sharing

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 01:04 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Swamp, you mentioned you use bait by itself, but you make a lot of hole sets.

Do you use just lure down the hole at some of those sets, or is your lure usage mostly at flat, post, or toy sets?

Lure usage is mostly at flat and post sets.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 01:11 PM

I gang set most of my locations since I am not one to put a trap here and one there etc. Minimum of 2 traps then up to 3-4 at what I consider a good location. If setting up a draw station or feed lot the sky is the limit at times for how many sets I feel I should use.

That being said, for the basic East and Midwest trapping locations I mix up my lure and bait use at each trap set. 2-3 different lures and baits/urine are used. Some sets one odor some have 2 -3 odors of sorts. I keep records of each set and what is used. The results are very interesting.

It is hard to determine which set caught first at a gang set up I but have caught many doubles, triples and quads over the years doing this presentation.

I found Egg based baits and lures worked best in some areas while red meats, meat based lures and glands in another. I always designated one set to be what I deemed as the call lure station set at my gang set up

Interesting observation was I used some sweet based fruit baits every year and catch predators all winter on them as well. Even caught a few bobcat on some sweet fruit flavored paste baits used at hole type sets.. I imagine the sweet odor curiosity caught the cats attention.

This system allows me to monitor which lure / bait seems to produce better at that time of year in that area. Within a week or two I can see a pattern develop pretty quick.

These finding may help to prove that different areas are providing different food sources or that some animals seemed to prefer some food / odor choices over another. It is very interesting the things that are learned through experimenting and testing. What you think should work every where doesn't always pan out that way.

There are lots of variables in trapping and that is what probably keeps us all so intrigued with what we do.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 02:07 PM

I agree this is a GREAT THREAD,good record keeping of patterns etc. weather,lure response male female adults or pups,my record keeping is good but nothing like James I remember Jack Whitman Gulo praising Jamrs record keeping and thats coming from one of the TOP TRAPPERS Jack is very humble.I've stated earlier listen to people and soak things up,you can learn a lot from some trappers and never get satisfied and get in a rut,we are learning more each year we trap,when you think you know all the answers go are going backwards fast.The animal will always be your best teachers some are easier to figure out than other's that just the way it is.Have a great rest of the weekend.

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 04:10 PM

Guys I have trap some farms and ranches for years.I will tell you i do not catch every coyote i kept them at a manageable rate.Over the years i have kept notes then when i find something working i get away from doing it.I use 70 percent dirt holes 20 flat sets 10 post sets. I use bait , lure. urine combinations same stuff. Do you thing that coyotes from last year avoid my sets and combinations this year? Some years same locatins if there is sign.I would like to know what you think.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 05:29 PM

Len I am not sure about avoiding your old sets but I think Matt Jones said this, “ Those old set locations become scent posts spots that all the predators come over to check out.” It makes sense. And after a bit the investigating animals become relaxed about stepping all over the old location.

More thoughts on extreme scents and being subtle....for the trappers that utilize kneeling/ setting canvas’ to make and remake trap sets...do you use the same canvas after catching a skunk? Do you use a different setting canvas for remakes?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/20/22 09:17 PM

Originally Posted by Len Dunham

I use 70 percent dirt holes 20 flat sets 10 post sets. I use bait , lure. urine combinations same stuff.

Do you think that coyotes from last year avoid my sets and combinations this year? Some years same locations if there is sign. I would like to know what you think.

I think a great location will catch you coyotes year after year in most cases.

I'd guess that a lot depends on how much pressure you are putting on the population in that area every year.

What you do at those locations that can have a big impact..

If you go back with the exact same smells and hole sets in the same area year after year it’ will cost you coyotes over time.

Switching up looks and smells can really help you stay in step with Wile.E.

It also depends on what your main focus is. Is your goal putting up fur or killing fawn killers?

Sure, you can pick up the "B" Team on just about anything. The first string is a totally different story

Do I think the educated coyote crew remembers location, smells and looks? You Betcha !

Some wreak havoc, and some totally avoid sets.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/21/22 02:38 AM

Great observations Tejas.

I trap ranches year after year for 3-6 months (fall and winter - lambing time).

My goal is to trap every last coyote on every ranch. Of course, that is impossible. But that is the idea.

The uneducated ones come quick. Then it slows down and I pick up a few at a time when they move around.

A combination of fence snares and foot traps is tough to beat. I try to make it hard for a coyote to go from one end of a ranch to another without getting pinched. About 75% come in snares and 25% in foot traps. Sometimes more, sometimes less. It varies from year to year and ranch to ranch.

It takes a lot of work, but it is effective in my experience. I check a lot of traps and snares. Hundreds a day. That is a lot of empty sets. And a lot of coons, skunks, foxes and hogs in my coyote sets. But saving lambs and kid goats is worth it. And the deer, turkey and quail benefit too.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/21/22 01:03 PM

Good stuff Centex....I like your attitude.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/21/22 02:06 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

for the trappers that utilize kneeling/ setting canvas’ to make and remake trap sets...do you use the same canvas after catching a skunk? Do you use a different setting canvas for remakes?

MC, I certainly see what you are getting at with the cross contamination.

I use a canvas for new sets and the kneeling pad for remakes.

The same kneeling pad is used at new sets, but the 5x5 tarp covers the entire work area.

I have no doubt that my first night and overall catch has increased because of the tarp.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/21/22 02:37 PM

No doubt that odor transfer can be good or not so good in some circumstances. For some it takes years of field experience to recognize its importance. In a non-stressed animal environment, you can get away with most anything without worries. Pups / YOY don't see any problems, but the older dogs and females have very different interpretations of such odor encounters.

Precautions should be taken when going into a long -term control program working the same general area. It is night and day with seasonal run and gun and moving on philosophy every few weeks. It can be frustrating and challenging at the same time. But that's what makes us better, those who stick it out.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/21/22 04:53 PM

Originally Posted by Centex Trapper

Great observations Tejas.

I trap ranches year after year for 3-6 months (fall and winter - lambing time).

My goal is to trap every last coyote on every ranch. Of course, that is impossible. But that is the idea.

The uneducated ones come quick. Then it slows down and I pick up a few at a time when they move around.

A combination of fence snares and foot traps is tough to beat. I try to make it hard for a coyote to go from one end of a ranch to another without getting pinched. About 75% come in snares and 25% in foot traps. Sometimes more, sometimes less. It varies from year to year and ranch to ranch.

It takes a lot of work, but it is effective in my experience. I check a lot of traps and snares. Hundreds a day. That is a lot of empty sets. And a lot of coons, skunks, foxes and hogs in my coyote sets

. But saving lambs and kid goats is worth it. And the deer, turkey and quail benefit too.

That’s exactly right CT!

In my case killing coyotes is all about protecting fawns and the deer herd in general.

We did our helicopter survey at the end of last year and we had over 80% fawn recruitment.

Our post-rut buck mortality has dropped as well.

I know for certain when we start seeing a few grey fox here and there we are putting a substantial hurt on the coyote population at least for the time being

It's super dry here now and the buffelgrass along with other important ground cover is very sparse. If this drought continues up until when the fawns are born there will not be many places left for a new-born to hide. That will of course result in a much higher mortality rate. That fact alone prompts me to kill every coyote I can to hedge my bet just in case we don’t get enough rainfall to provide adequate cover.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/21/22 08:12 PM

Digging after the fact never helps.

[Linked Image]

The deer density and prickly pear make using drags out of the question.

[Linked Image]

Female - Flat Set - Winter Wolf - G-Dog Urine

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 12:45 AM

Tejas, you ever take your dog out and let it run around with you? I think having a dog with you can play mental games with coyotes and cause them to slip up too.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 02:12 AM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Tejas, you ever take your dog out and let it run around with you?

I think having a dog with you can play mental games with coyotes and cause them to slip up too.

Silky, I just got back in and was doing that exact thing!

I have a few sets guarding an old bone yard and I ran him around that area to hit all the hot spots.

He is a high powered male Catahoula that will not pass up a coyote mark.

If a Wile E. was on that road and left a calling card it will be found and marked over every single time.

He gets so fired up he will throw a rooster tail twenty feet behind him when doing kickbacks.

I need to utilize him more when numbers are low and things get tough.

He could help kill a bunch of coyotes with that willingness to work and great nose.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 11:25 AM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Here's another solid female caught in a remake set.

[Linked Image]

This wide open crossroad has been a consistent producer over the years.

[Linked Image]

Female – Flat Set – MB Coyote Urine – JG Lure

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 11:29 AM

Good morning James

Enjoying checking this thread a few times a day

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 11:57 AM

Good morning TEJAS, and good job on the female!

Looks like she dug the area up quite a bit, were you able to salvage a remake out of the set?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 01:28 PM

Originally Posted by J Harrell

Good morning TEJAS, and good job on the female!

Looks like she dug the area up quite a bit, were you able to salvage a remake out of the set?

You Betcha!

I carry a rake just for smoothing out catch circles.

I want the area to be as flat as I can get it before I remake the set again.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/22/22 02:49 PM

Good deal!

I was thinking with that sand a good garden rake would be a valuable piece of equipment.

Around here I’d have to have a load of topsoil hauled in when they dig one up like that. Lol

The ground being frozen solid is my best friend for constructing a good remake.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 04:30 PM

Old Jim Digger made another drive-by or two with a new strategy.

Here is the original post with set details.

Orignal Set & Fix

The first two set and fix photos are put back to back here to get a better idea of the mayhem

First Set and Fix. 3-12

[Linked Image]

On the second visit three nights later, he came in just behind the center attractant then swung around and hit the set from the seven o’clock.

Two links of chain were unearthed and the jig was up.

Second Set and Fix. 3-15

[Linked Image]

Notice in both worked photos how a lot of the footwork and mark lines up with the four o’clock hour far removed from the center attractant.

Keep in mind the tufts of grass on the left and right of the set hold a very small amount of bait and just a little urine..

The old coyote uses the scat as a marker for where to dig.

In this case the main attractant stays put, and the trap is extended the length of the anchor chain.

With all the backside digging, I chose not to move the trap there.

The set is made at the distant four o'clock hour where he seemed to spend the most time.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 04:31 PM

Here is the third set and fix made on 3-20.

This visit he seemed to have spent more time at the set milling around, but there was no set pattern.

[Linked Image]

This is the trap placement from the 3-15 fix,

[Linked Image]

There was an overlay of four or five prints in a small area at the ten o’clock hour from where the scat is placed.

The trap was moved the length of its chain to that position. Notice the exposed pan.

[Linked Image]

Here’s the third and final finished set.

[Linked Image]

In the case of this smart coyote, I left the attractant(s) in place so I could establish a pattern and move the trap accordingly.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 04:32 PM

On the morning of 3-22 this big fella was there to greet me.

It took ten days to reel him in from the time he arrived on the scene.

[Linked Image]

He had probably crossed that cattle guard many a time in his day.

[Linked Image]

The look of an “A” game coyote

[Linked Image]

Many miles had been put on these pads, and many hard lessons were learned.

[Linked Image]

Those two missing toes were not lost on my trapping ground.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 04:57 PM

Coyote Games at its finest!!!

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 06:08 PM

Check and mate!

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 06:15 PM

Nice work

Looks like a heavy old fella

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/23/22 06:22 PM

That's the way to take them out James.

That ole boy has been thru the gauntlet it appears.

Posted By: bucksnbears

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 12:49 AM

What a great thread!

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 01:32 AM

great thread

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 01:53 PM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Here is a three part question for the Coyote Crew on this fine Thursday morning.

What does the crew do with their remake sets?

How do coyotes in their trapping area react to catch circles?

What strategies, looks, sets, or smells do you use to help overcome avoidance issues?

A lot of coyote trappers struggle with remake catches, while in other places they are a gold mine.

What’s the story in your neck of the woods?

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 03:51 PM

Remakes in catch circles seem to be a waste of time for me. Yotes seem to avoid entering a catch circle but I have better luck setting a few feet outside usually on the up wind side. I don't use a loud lure on a remake. Not that I catch ton's of yotes as we don't have the numbers, it's just that is what works for me.

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 04:09 PM

Remakes don't work to good for me. I put in a fresh set as close as possibe.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 04:47 PM

1. I smooth out catch circle area and put back into same bed when the ground is frozen. If ground isn't frozen I sometimes pull trap closer to the edge of catch circle.

2. Some catch circles are avoided but most continue to recatch. I noticed remake catches increased after using a dog on the trapline.

3. Once they are on to the game of food and curiosity lures I put genuine coyote scat down with a shot of 2 different types of urine at set or use 2 different types of gland lure at set . This usually snags the one avoiding other types of sets.

I will share this also. I believe you can condition a coyote to feel as if you aren't a threat. Just go to the area, walk around, scout, prepare some things for the type of set you want to present, dig trap bed, and drive anchors in. Don't set anything or put any kind of attractant down. Come back a week later and then set everything up. I come to this conclusion because I do this a lot so I don't get caught trying to work with frozen ground. I pre dig trap bed and put a anchor in. Put a cow pie or rock close by I intend use at set. Upon returning I will find coyotes have marked my pre digging activity from the previous week. When I smell the urine or see the scat by my previous activity it will usually be a easy catch. I feel they are use to my smell and no harm came to them with the close encounter of my activity. Plus the added natural aroma from the coyotes helps too.

This technique worked on this pair I seen using this 2 track. Got things prepared here, they noticed my pre activity and marked it. I set it up a week later and this was the instant results. Not saying this will work for everyone, but sure has resulted in a lot of coyotes for me.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 10:50 PM

Good Stuff SPC.

When it comes to avoidance, skirting, or a delayed second catch at the remake, does the crew think that the hesitation is due more to a visual or olfactory overload?

Knowing that could certainly point us in the right direction as far as a solution goes.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/24/22 11:40 PM

I think it is more scent than visual in my area. I have tried to sift grass and duff over a catch circle several times. The coyotes still shied away.

So now I leave the catch circle and set a subtle set 5-15 yards downwind. And maybe a set just outside the circle upwind.

But I mostly fix it by using drags. It preserves my original set. Then I set near where the coyote ends up in the brush. I leave the dispatched coyote right there in the brush. ( I do damage control and our coyotes aren’t worth squat)

I try to find a trail or open spot downwind of that dead coyote and set a scent post / blind set. When they circle, I have a good chance at them.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 12:56 AM

I do catch a few,very few in remakes even in frozen ground,but most of my location's have 3 set's sometime after awhile I've had as many as 7 catch circles within a 50 yard area.I make sure I always have at least one clean new set around my remake's.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 01:32 AM

Remakes are usually gold here. 15 miles to the south I have to set on the edge of the catch circle or just pull the set and put in a new one.

I think we have it easier here than most. In our wide open fields after the chisel plows run and it gets muddy the grass is the place to be. Most of the prey is there and it’s easy traveling. Found many a great yote locations by watching hawks and crows. Another plus here is the wind is always changing the micro environment by blowing corn and to some extent bean chaff around. I have got away with some insane guiding at times around corn fields and by transplanting bean stubble.

If I’m in a location that is subject to new yotes traveling that seems to be where remakes shine. Big stinky mess gets attention when you are the new yote on the block. I’ve had a couple sets do 7 yotes and several do 5. That’s here in a more stable environment like big woods or secluded travel ways like Tejas has I don’t know if they would work as well. I also think how you dispatch the yote matters on remakes. Some guys don’t police their brass or leave a big blood pool and that could be enough to make a yote think about something else and leave. If he is traveling he may never be back. Not saying it scares them just changes their focus.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 02:07 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Good Stuff SPC.

When it comes to avoidance, skirting, or a delayed second catch at the remake, does the crew think that the hesitation is due more to a visual or olfactory overload?

Knowing that could certainly point us in the right direction as far as a solution goes.

I really don't think it is either. I feel that it's learned from seeing others get caught. Then they associate the visual and bait or lure smells in the catch circle with danger after witnessing it happen. I've seen where a pair of tracks come down a trail where I have to 2 sets presented with a little different aroma at each. The first trap connects and then the second or single coyote continues down the trail 20 yards where another fresh set is. It paws delicately at set until it exposes a jaw or pan cover confirming that same danger awaits, so continues on. I've seen this more than once. I think it's the coyotes that are gifted with a little more intelligence and maturity though. Because I've seen the opposite as well, where both sets of track head down the trail and both caught.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 09:58 AM

Once again I have to thank all of those coyote trappers that have posted on this thread. Beginners, young or old, should copy and save this. Very few will realize until they beat around the field and woods a spell, just how much information has been shared. Thanks Tejas for taking folks along the line.

Mac

Posted By: Seldom

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 01:29 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Good Stuff SPC.

When it comes to avoidance, skirting, or a delayed second catch at the remake, does the crew think that the hesitation is due more to a visual or olfactory overload?

Knowing that could certainly point us in the right direction as far as a solution goes.

Here is a recent case in point that it’s scent-related though I’m not one of the “Coyote Crew” and my country is vastly different than what leads this thread.
Here’s an interesting observation when I put in one of the 2 sets of urine tests recently. I did so very near where I’d caught a coyote this winter in a blind trail set because I saw where a pair of coyotes used the travelway within 24hrs. There is an overgrown 2-track coming out of the brush and into a clearing, the catch circle was just back from the edge of the clearing in the 2--track. When I made the test plot there was 4” of snow and the pair of coyote had come down one of the tracks and swung over off the 2-track into the edge of the brush and continued on their way into the clearing and continued on in more or less a the same line of travel. I thought is was a little strange at the time that they didn’t continue right down the 2-track but I didn’t realize the catch circle was that close to the edge of the clearing or that close to my test plots.

A week later when I went to switch-out the cards the snow is all gone and there’s the catch circle. It was easily apparent then that the coyotes had skirted the edge of the catch circle which was made 12/18/21 and why they had walked almost in the brush off the edge of the 2-track to get around it. I thought their change of travel looked odd with the snow cover and I believe I see why now. The only scent that could have been left was the coyote’s and mine and there was absolutely no visual evidence that could be seen when they came through, yet they skirted it.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 03:49 PM

Originally Posted by Seldom

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Good Stuff SPC.

When it comes to avoidance, skirting, or a delayed second catch at the remake, does the crew think that the hesitation is due more to a visual or olfactory overload?

Knowing that could certainly point us in the right direction as far as a solution goes.

Here is a recent case in point that it’s scent-related though I’m not one of the “Coyote Crew” and my country is vastly different than what leads this thread.
Here’s an interesting observation when I put in one of the 2 sets of urine tests recently. I did so very near where I’d caught a coyote this winter in a blind trail set because I saw where a pair of coyotes used the travelway within 24hrs. There is an overgrown 2-track coming out of the brush and into a clearing, the catch circle was just back from the edge of the clearing in the 2--track. When I made the test plot there was 4” of snow and the pair of coyote had come down one of the tracks and swung over off the 2-track into the edge of the brush and continued on their way into the clearing and continued on in more or less a the same line of travel. I thought is was a little strange at the time that they didn’t continue right down the 2-track but I didn’t realize the catch circle was that close to the edge of the clearing or that close to my test plots.

A week later when I went to switch-out the cards the snow is all gone and there’s the catch circle. It was easily apparent then that the coyotes had skirted the edge of the catch circle which was made 12/18/21 and why they had walked almost in the brush off the edge of the 2-track to get around it. I thought their change of travel looked odd with the snow cover and I believe I see why now. The only scent that could have been left was the coyote’s and mine and there was absolutely no visual evidence that could be seen when they came through, yet they skirted it.

Do you think perhaps a trap circle made by a dominate coyote could also cause avoidance?

Posted By: Seldom

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 03:57 PM

Nope, a yoy female.
https://youtu.be/KYuHB8Bfe2k

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 04:02 PM

That's a good observation Seldom.

Do you think it was just the residual smell under the snow they are avoiding, or do you think that perhaps the coyotes remembered exactly where that catch was made and were avoiding the location itself?

Posted By: Seldom

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 04:43 PM

All I can say objectively speaking is that they avoided the invisible, 2-month old catch circle and proceeded on across the clearing to near where I started the video. The day with the snow cover I followed the pair down the other 2-track and saw that they sort of dill-dallied along. 1 checked the ice on the swamp and came back onto the 2-track. They veered off on to another side track but turned around and came back to the 2-track they were on and continued off the property.

When I 1st published my coyote gland testing videos a fellow trapper commented that coyote are afraid of all gland lures as told by a very, very well known trapper that isn’t allowed on this forum. I told this person that I have objective proof(videos) that isn’t always the case, there are no absolutes. I’ve proven that yes, some gland lures scare coyotes and proven that some don’t and are attracted to them. Everything in this catch circle is either me or everything a caught coyote leaves there but I have no idea what transpired around the catch circle for the 2 months it was there.

Posted By: Lance Squires

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 05:12 PM

Great thread and thanks to all of you who have shared your knowledge. On my line last year I didn't have much problem with resetting the catch circle and catching coyotes again but I don't believe there's many coyote trappers around here. Out of the 40 I caught in 17 days, 18 were in remakes. That will probably change next year but time will tell.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 05:26 PM

A good gland lure will attract and will trigger interest of coyotes. Marking, digging, rolling rubbing behavior can all be reactions in my experience. Too much can lead to some refusals at times but it in general provides interest. Alone or with another lure or bait. I have caught too many to say otherwise.

Overuse / too much of some formulated products can create caution, that is a fact also. Once the big push of odor backs off some they will come to find interest once again. Stay away for those sets, let them age.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 06:17 PM

I run two trap line dogs. They watch where I set each trap. They see coyotes caught and dispatched at those sets. Each dog has been cuffed once. Now they pass several sets each year without even acknowledging them. It's interesting to watch them run down a 2 track with sets on it. They will be running down the side with traps on it and 10 or plus yards before they get to where the set is they will switch lanes and just continue on by. That's even when the wind is blowing in the opposite direction. That's why I believe it is a learned trait.

I have one dog that has at least 6 years of the trapline behind her. Got a pup and started to let him come around a year old. He followed her lead and didn't show any interest in the sets as she did, even though he had never been exposed or trained to avoid the sets. He got caught once when I crowded the truck up close to the set and he was trying to skirt the edge of the truck. Other than that one time he has never made that mistake again.

So from my experience in the field, I have seen areas that coyotes just won't commit. I know they are there by the sign. Once you take out the lead (experienced) coyote you'll start catching the inexperienced fairly easily. Just my thoughts and observances.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 10:05 PM

When it comes to avoidance there is a laundry list of factors that could cause an issue.

It’s impossible to say with absolute certainty that this one thing caused the drive-by.

We can only draw a conclusion by what we see and experience.

I do believe that a majority of the avoidance here is caused by the catch circle being too hot.

My basis for that is what happens once the smell is allowed to dissipate just a bit.

For the most part, coyotes here balk at a fresh catch circle. Usually by day four or five the circle has cooled down enough to where I start seeing a few coyotes checking things out around the set.

I would bet that any quick remake catches are usually of some relation to the original caught coyote.

When you pick a set, look, and attractant for a remake, keep in mind the coyote is more than likely on point and just looking for the slightest reason to back out. I believe what you show him in that situation can make the difference between a worked set and a drive-by.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/25/22 10:42 PM

For sure, Tejas. It's a conclusion we make as individuals based on what we see and experience on our lines, nothing definite. So nobody is really right or wrong if it works for them. Even if a person does something that doesn't seem beneficial and gives that individual confidence then that's the right thing for him. For example, you talked about remakes and what you present to make a difference. I'm of the mind set not to use any urine or gland lure at a remake because it's already all there. Just a good food based attractant like a tasty little morsel was dropped for the opportunistic coyote to take advantage of. I will even grab a piece of scat left from the catch and set it a few inches away from food attractant just in case they can't help themselves from sniffing who was there. This works well for me and I have confidence in it working. But I know of another guy who mists the remake with urine and feels that his remake catches increase from doing it. It gives him confidence and works, so be it. I've tried it but I don't think it gives me a edge and like I said the area already wreaks of urine so why put more down. But as long as we're both successful in what we decide there's no really right or wrong way of doing it. So trappers, do what works best for you and gives you the most confidence.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/26/22 01:09 AM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

For example, you talked about remakes and what you present to make a difference.

I'm of the mind set not to use any urine or gland lure at a remake because it's already all there.

Just a good food based attractant like a tasty little morsel was dropped for the opportunistic coyote to take advantage of.

I will even grab a piece of scat left from the catch and set it a few inches away from food attractant just in case they can't help themselves from sniffing who was there.

This works well for me and I have confidence in it working.

Exactly!

Whether you have good or bad luck with remakes, think about what is in the circle and what is not.

What can you put inside the circle that will possibly make a coyote go against his better judgment and step in the danger zone?

i believe one of the best answers to that question is in Silky's post.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/26/22 02:24 AM

I'll share a remake story. A friend had a foothold set at farm that wasn't too far from my house and asked if I could check it for him. I didn't really think he would have a catch so I didn't put my trapping bag in the truck. When I got there an adult male was indeed caught. So I dispatched and put in the back of my truck. The trapper in me couldn't leave a unset trap. So I smoothed out the catch circle with my foot, grabbed some prairie grass and wadded it up to go under pan, and smoothed catch dirt back over trap with hand. Then I thought what am going to do to attract another animal. So I just grabbed two pieces of scat he left behind and spread each about 8" apart and the pan was in the middle of them about the same distance away. I thought at least it's a active set and he can change it to his liking on his next check. On his next check was another male coyote bouncing.

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/26/22 10:20 AM

Be nice to sit around a fire with you guys.

This one time.
The top of a maple tree ended up into an alfalfa field after a big wind.
I requested it be left and I would remove it later.
Hole set at brush end and lure smear flat set at butt.
Raccoon hit the hole and made a heavy burn circle.
Few checks later I saw where yote worked the blood pool.
Policing the remake was mentioned earlier and that is what I then did,
scraping into the hole.
Quite a few checks later it snowed making the circle and everything invisible
Then bang yote double.

Visual or scent related? , Yes lol.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/26/22 02:23 PM

This series of photos used for illustration are from 2017

Up until a few years ago the double dirt hole was my top remake producer.

Like Silky mentioned, the catch circle has all the lure you could possibly need already added.

The set consists of two 1.5 punch holes four inches apart with the pan centered at eight inches out.

No backing or fencing is needed. Bait both holes and you are good to go.

[Linked Image]

I usually smooth out the sand and clean up the circle debris much more than what is shown in the photo.

Notice the trail in the background and the additional set on the right.

[Linked Image]

Here is the result.

[Linked Image]

I can’t help but wonder who was caught first.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/26/22 04:09 PM

That’s cool. I’ve had a few coyote/cat doubles. Based on some pics of a double on coyotes with a bobcat sitting looking at the two “dogs” in a trap, I’d say the coyote was first and curiosity got the best of the cat, lol.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/27/22 01:09 AM

There's no way to know for sure, but I believe this big old male was the coyote detouring off the road around sets.

Drive-By Coyote

I picked him up four days later about a mile from where he was avoiding a string of sets.

That road went stone cold for several weeks after his departure

.I threw him a changeup flat set that he hadn't seen before.

[Linked Image]

Flat Set - MB Coyote Urine - Weiser Coyote Gland

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/27/22 12:29 PM

Congrats on outsmarting that old warrior

Posted By: Anonymous

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/27/22 11:01 PM

Good thread TEJAS. That dirt looks like more like San Antonio way or out west than the Valley?
And since you weren't showing a load of cats that may be the case.
Low fence with all that sign unless the high fence is porous.

Not many ticks?

Well done and good ride along!
Hit 'em a lick!

Blessings,
Mark

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/28/22 10:19 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Here is a three part question for the Coyote Crew on this fine Thursday morning.

What does the crew do with their remake sets?

How do coyotes in their trapping area react to catch circles?

What strategies, looks, sets, or smells do you use to help overcome avoidance issues?

A lot of coyote trappers struggle with remake catches, while in other places they are a gold mine.

What’s the story in your neck of the woods?

Good question Tejas, For me it depends on the species caught. If it's a coyote I quite trying to get them to comit to the original trap bed. I pull the trap and make a subtle flat on the downwind side of the circle. If it was a red fox then I remake the original set with a food base lure. If its a coon or opossum then I remake the original and use a curiosity type lure. If there isn't a fresh set close already and there normally is I'll add a fresh set 10 yards or so away. If I see coyotes avoiding or stalling at a location then I'll add sets a different location. There's a big advantage if you have snow or sand that you can see what they are doing or not.
The few I caught on coyote remakes this past season were caught scent post remakes in frozen ground with snow with rocks or sod as backings. But it took awhile for the set to cool off.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/29/22 06:07 PM

Here is an old coyote with a lot of dirt roads and history behind him.

I once thought that you could catch just about any adult male coyote that crossed your path without too much trouble.

The male’s bold nature is most often their downfall I believe.

There are always exceptions to the rule, and old Tripod was one of them.

What he was missing in the running gear department he made up for in sendero savvy.

Here’s the Road Warrior in 2019 before the trapping started that year.

Over seventy coyotes bit the dust in Tripod’s back yard that season.

By the time 2020 rolled around it was still his back yard.

[Linked Image]

The winter of 2020 showed no sign of the three legged wonder.

Fifty plus coyotes went for a ride in the Polaris, yet the gimp was still on the lamb.

Not one single photo was taken of him by February 2021.

A mama cow died in March 2021 from complications giving birth. She died in a pasture adjacent to a heavy pressure area.

Tripod immediately showed up at the carcass and defended the top spot against five other coyotes the entire time he was there.

[Linked Image]

Around fifteen coyotes were taken at the dead cow fiesta, but the guest of honor managed to skate again.

Another twenty or so contestants would trip the pan as well, but the one who leaves three tracks in the sand was not one of them.

Winter 2021 would come and go without a trace of the gray ghost.

March ushered in the spring of 2022 and there he was.

[Linked Image]

The injury looked to be from an old gunshot wound.

[Linked Image]

A fresh missing toenail on his right front showed he had been making the rounds.

[Linked Image]

He had put some years behind him from the looks of his choppers.

[Linked Image]

He did well to "keep so much hair when so many's after it".

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/29/22 06:16 PM

Excellent history story of the tri pod coyote!

Posted By: Turtledale

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/29/22 09:49 PM

Really enjoying this thread. Great story on tripod

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/30/22 12:04 AM

Ol' Tripod is a trophy

Probably took out a lot of fawns in his time

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/30/22 02:47 AM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Ol' Tripod is a trophy

Probably took out a lot of fawns in his time

I agree and would probably clean his skull.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/30/22 06:38 PM

I mentioned earlier that the coyotes who manage to survive the longest do not stay on the property full time. Tripod was one of those coyotes.

Another interesting note is Tripod was caught at a remake set that had already taken two coyotes.

The remake was only four days old when he was caught.

The flat set he was taken with was set up for a back door approach upwind of the attractant.

Neither the 180° set construction or backside line by the coyote was an accident.

It all comes back to reading sign and making the necessary adjustments when necessary.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/31/22 01:58 PM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

This is Miss Misery.

She could mess up more sets than a bushel full of year old coons.

I am pretty sure she was sponsored by a metal detector company.

On her last few days here she made a pass on a six trap gang set and made it look like a yard sale on a windy day.

I remade all six sets with different pan placement at each location. She came back in and wrecked five of the six sets.

The one she was caught in had my regular eight and straight pan placement.

This was the third coyote taken at this set.

[Linked Image]

Flat Set - G-Dog Urine - Winter Wolf

This gal would have sent you to the hospital if you gave her the chance.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 03/31/22 03:55 PM

Morning Tejas,

You mentioned the old gal being sponsored by a metal detector company. I do think it's possible for some animals to detect metal energy. Have you read Kirk DeKalbs book, "The Real Reasons Animals Are Detecting Your Sets and Devices?" It's a interesting read and opens your mind up to some things. I'm not promoting the book but I have read it and I believe it has some merit, but there's so many variables that come into play that I don't think his philosophy is a major game changer in trapping.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/01/22 02:59 PM

Without going down a rabbit hole…..

It’s little more than a theory that can’t be proven.

It cannot be said with any degree of certainty that the proposed theory could possibility be a main cause of avoidance when you have so many other aspects that can illicit the same behavior.

As you know, smart coyotes find traps by fishing for them. Some fish a lot more than others.

That was the case with the cagey gal in the post above.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/01/22 04:14 PM

The old sand road set picks up its third coyote.

[Linked Image]

Male - Flat Set – G-Dog Urine - Gray Ghost

Posted By: Lazarus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/01/22 04:16 PM

This is a good thread and I always lurk on anything that Tejas posts. My own take on the digging issue is that its probably (we may never know until the coyotes start talking to us) a combination of things. Based on my own observations, I have noticed that here in my area we have some soil types that have high alkali and they will IMMEDIATELY rust even the best waxed traps. I get a higher percentage of digging/exploring/fiddling around in that type of soil than in, say dry sandy soil. Similarly, in the early fall when the insects are still active, I seem to get more digging -- particularly from pups-- than at other times of year. My suspicion is that they treat any sign of fresh digging as some sort of potential food source. I also seem to get less digging (generally speaking) as time goes on and a set "ages," as opposed to fresh sets with freshly dug dirt.

Just my own observations. Carry on and keep posting.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/01/22 05:30 PM

I agree. I think soil types play a big role in digging issues. Not sure of the reasons but perhaps some smells are enhanced with more moisture in the soil. We know dogs can pick up scent better with moist conditions. That's why I believe there is love or hate relationship with gas based trapping dips. Some have great success while others say they have more dug up traps when they tried it. For example, I talked to a trapper in the NE part of Nebraska that traps mostly crop ground. Tried gas based speed dip and had trouble with dug up traps. He can go to the central part of the state, trap pasture ground that is dry, and not have issues with digging when using the gas based dip. I use gas based dip on my traps in the dry plains of Nebraska. I have for years and don't don't see problems with digging because of it.

Just my thoughts and observations as well. Be observant and use what works in your area.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 02:19 AM

I’ve noticed here that the vast majority of digging comes from adult females. I had a group of three juveniles dig on me this year. I believe they could very well be the offspring of Miss Misery.

All of those coyotes were caught in the same pasture. I have little doubt that adult females at least teach the nanny that sometimes sticks with her.

If trap contamination was to blame for the digging at sets in my area, it would stand to reason that the problem would be much more widespread than it is.
I use FMJ, and my traps see very little moisture.

In my case diggers seem to be isolated instances for the most part. Early in the season I’ve learned that when you think you have a digger it’s usually not just one.

There is another primary cause for digging you never hear trappers talk about. It will be interesting to see if someone mentions it.

Posted By: Willy Firewood

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 07:38 AM

Around here:

Digging can begin when the area of sifted and soft soil around the trap is too large. They walk in the mushy soil and start feeling around.

Another cause is when raccoons partially dig up a trap. The Coyote further investigates.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 10:18 AM

Fresh dug dirt means food to the coyote or fox and those dang coon are the worst. Some coyotes react to the gas produced by rust. Waxed dirt helps with both. Less fresh dug dirt smell and no moisture on the trap. I've had the same coyotes dig 2 sets and get caught in the 3rd. Makes a guy wonder how many get caught while digging... And its yet another reason to gang set..

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 12:11 PM

Very educational thread. thanks
Mac

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 12:51 PM

Also have been enjoying this thread.
Guys, using Gary and James’ examples, it makes a trapper wonder just how much LUCK s involved with catching or not catching these diggers.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 01:05 PM

This has been a great thread,coyotes are like people some have common sense and woodsmans persons sense and can survive almost anything thrown at them.Thank God most of the coyotes are democrats naive and follow others than figure things out for themselves.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 08:57 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

There is another primary cause for digging you never hear trappers talk about. It will be interesting to see if someone mentions it.

Originally Posted by trappergbus

Fresh dug dirt means food to the coyote or fox and those dang coon are the worst. Some coyotes react to the gas produced by rust. Waxed dirt helps with both. Less fresh dug dirt smell and no moisture on the trap. I've had the same coyotes dig 2 sets and get caught in the 3rd. Makes a guy wonder how many get caught while digging... And its yet another reason to gang set..

Thanks G.

I should have known you would have the answer.

Wolfers usually point at trap contamination or a trap not solidly bedded where digging is concerned.

I believe that fresh dirt smell is probably responsible for more digging than any other factor.

Folks might keep this in mind next time they have a digger on their line.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/02/22 11:42 PM

The digging of a fresh trap pattern can be counteracted from the beginning. If your dirt from the trap bed has moisture in it and you're going to use it to sift over trap then go with a dirt hole. Put a pile of fresh dirt up by the hole, little pile behind loose jaw, and sift it past the bed a little. Like a disturbance from a rodent doing a little excavating. No real isolated focal point of fresh dirt then because it's spread around. If you're doing a flat set, toss the fresh and go with pre dried dirt over trap.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/03/22 12:36 PM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

Here is a catch from April first that is right in line with the topic of digging.

This location is guarded by a five trap gang set with about a week soak time. The conditions are super dry powder sand. These five sets have produced nine coyotes.

This older male coyote flipped three out of the five sets, and pulled up the loose jaw on set number four. Notice the two overturned traps in the background. He also upended another set about two hundred yards away.

[Linked Image]

For the most part I crowd the attractant. This coyote caught on to that and made the most of it.

Once again gang set odds and making adjustments caught up with another problem coyote.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/03/22 01:02 PM

Just wandering has anyone ever tried using cover scent like Dead down wind or scent away sprayed around a set to possibly stop digging.

Posted By: steeltraps

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/03/22 03:51 PM

Good job !

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/03/22 08:57 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

The digging of a fresh trap pattern can be counteracted from the beginning. If your dirt from the trap bed has moisture in it and you're going to use it to sift over trap then go with a dirt hole. Put a pile of fresh dirt up by the hole, little pile behind loose jaw, and sift it past the bed a little. Like a disturbance from a rodent doing a little excavating. No real isolated focal point of fresh dirt then because it's spread around. If you're doing a flat set, toss the fresh and go with pre dried dirt over trap.

I call it the govmt set, or deversion, the pile of dirt diverts there attention from what really is happening LOL.. Seriously tho , when I'm using waxed dirt i place the excavated dirt in my sifter, then when sets completed I'll place the pile next to the backing with flat sets. Sometimes the pile of fresh dirt is the backing.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/03/22 09:12 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

The digging of a fresh trap pattern can be counteracted from the beginning. If your dirt from the trap bed has moisture in it and you're going to use it to sift over trap then go with a dirt hole. Put a pile of fresh dirt up by the hole, little pile behind loose jaw, and sift it past the bed a little. Like a disturbance from a rodent doing a little excavating. No real isolated focal point of fresh dirt then because it's spread around. If you're doing a flat set, toss the fresh and go with pre dried dirt over trap.

I call it the govmt set, or deversion, the pile of dirt diverts there attention from what really is happening LOL.. Seriously tho , when I'm using waxed dirt i place the excavated dirt in my sifter, then when sets completed I'll place the pile next to the backing with flat sets. Sometimes the pile of fresh dirt is the backing.

Nice description, Gary. I do something similar, once in a while, when in a pasture. I shovel around the trap, flip up the whole sod grass plug leaving dirt and root side up, and use it as a backing for a flat set. Squirt it with urine, rub gland lure on it, or put a piece scat on it. I either use pre dried dirt or waxed dirt over trap depending on the time of the year.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/04/22 01:48 PM

Here is a two part question on digging for the Coyote Crew this Monday morning.

1. What do you do when you have a trap or string of traps dug up and you believe it is not directly related to smell ?

2.. Do you think that coyotes can remember where they have recently dug up traps at individual sets?

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/04/22 02:12 PM

I put the trap back where it has been dug up.Then i add one eight to ten inches back.Yes i think they remember.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/04/22 04:35 PM

Never have I ever had a trap dug up. Not even a coon…yet.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/04/22 10:01 PM

Folks who believe a coyote can smell or detect a trap due to its metal properties might want to take a look at this.

I am a firm believer that coyotes can remember exactly where they have dug up a trap.

When you bed back in the same place it was dug up you're asking for trouble.

Here is an unearthed set from a few years ago when I still used a lot of backing.

The trap was was moved back and to the right after being worked

The Dig

[Linked Image]

The Adjustment

[Linked Image]

The Response

[Linked Image]

It appears evident that the coyote could neither smell nor detect anything related to the trap

It dug in the exact same spot where the trap originally was.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/05/22 02:49 PM

Here’s another coyote singing the flat set blues.

[Linked Image]

Male - Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – JL #1

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/06/22 10:19 AM

Originally Posted by Slipknot

Just wandering has anyone ever tried using cover scent like Dead down wind or scent away sprayed around a set to possibly stop digging.

I started using a home made scent killer. I spray the trap and my gloves before making a set. Never thought about misting the trap bed.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/06/22 10:29 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Here is a two part question on digging for the Coyote Crew this Monday morning.

1. What do you do when you have a trap or string of traps dug up and you believe it is not directly related to smell ?

2.. Do you think that coyotes can remember where they have recently dug up traps at individual sets?

Do be honest I haven't had that problem since I started using the Alpha with a bigger jaw spread that I can bury deeper. And since I went back to boiling in walnut and waxing. When I used gas based dips tho it was maddening.

When I do I just add another flat set variation with a different trap placement with less pan tension.

They remember a lot more than we think they do. Good thing they are curious

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/06/22 03:53 PM

Until a coyote has been pinched I don’t think they know what they are digging or that it’s a danger. It is something that either feels or smells different. If they are really that smart why did old tripod go to the happy hunting ground ? He obviously had encountered people and people smells before, being shot once and pinched once he should never have been caught. Tejas left a well bedded and blended trap that had enough coyote smell to make him act like a coyote. Wether he was there out of curiosity ( was his female caught there ) or dominance ( perhaps a male that didn’t belong was caught there ) or maybe Tejas left a smell that (This word is unacceptable on Trapperman) him off . I don’t think it matters anymore to Tripod , lol .

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/06/22 07:44 PM

I personally don't think that a coyote has to be pinched to know that danger is lurking. Some learn by association quick, while others don't. They have witnessed what has happened to others and catch on. I personally don't have many issues with digging 99% of the time. But once in awhile when trapping a particular area for prolonged periods, such as Tejas, you will see that one has figured out the game without having a close encounter. For example, I'll catch 4 or 5 coyotes in a section( 640 acres) and not have any tripped traps or digging prior to that. Then the one that has survived seems to avoid the sets for a little while, but then starts to approach remakes and fresh sets with caution pawing or digging to possibly expose the danger others have fell victim too. But change things up and time will prevail. Sooner or later, depending on changing circumstances such as; hunger, greed, breeding, or being territorial, their instinctive behavior will over ride a good sense of judgement.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/06/22 09:13 PM

Good post silky, I agree and then break out my bag of tricks. Two trap sets, post hole set, but for me gang setting locations that are known travel ways and...catch locations work best just as Tejas has shown.
One ‘possum in the bag that I bring out in these situations is Charlie Dobbins’ 10 second set. If I gang set say six traps at at a good location I will not use an attractor at one. So five are baited or lured or urined up
one is not. Think flat sets here. As the catch circles begin to wind down and I see I have new arrival now that 10 second set is put to work. I like a shot of urine or a gland lure and urine mix. Patience is a virtual when coyote trapping. Too bad gas prices make that a losing proposition today.
Hope this helps some coyote trapper.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/07/22 12:00 AM

Silky I would agree that maybe you will have a coyote from time to time that is more skittish than others. The fact that In these pages and on my line you see pictures of doubles , triples and more on a regular basis says the majority don’t catch on too quickly. I will say that numbers in my opinion makes for competition and competition makes for fewer skittish coyotes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/07/22 01:57 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

I would agree that maybe you will have a coyote from time to time that is more skittish than others. The fact that In these pages and on my line you see pictures of doubles , triples and more on a regular basis says the majority don’t catch on too quickly. I will say that numbers in my opinion makes for competition and competition makes for fewer skittish coyotes.

I don't believe that the wariness of any one or group of coyotes is determined by the density in that area.

Pressure creates education. That education puts a coyote’s wariness on point. His nose is the lie detector.

If you put enough pressure on any group of you will eventually have problems.

A good coyote density does not guarantee multiple gang set catches on pressured ground.

All you have to do to test that statement is lay down a few dozen of those tired hole sets and your line will look like a weekday yard sale.

They catch on to repeated patterns extremely quick. That goes for visual and olfactory.

Try catching a group of pressured coyotes with one set/look and one attractant and you will see what I mean.

Many of the veterans don’t catch on because I try to constantly keep them guessing, not because they ride the short bus.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/07/22 02:10 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

Until a coyote has been pinched I don’t think they know what they are digging or that it’s a danger.

It is something that either feels or smells different.

If they are really that smart why did old tripod go to the happy hunting ground?

Golf, I've found that a coyote doesn’t have to be pinched to know something is up. They will dig for many other reasons besides the two mentioned.

It becomes a game to unearth traps. I think they go on fishing expeditions just for something to do at times.

When residents start disappearing and catch circles start popping up like mushrooms they know something is amiss.

Old Tripod was smart enough to stay alive in a place where hundreds of coyotes were caught and he managed to survive the minefield.

He had to make the right move every single time. I only had to make the right counter move once.

He was caught at a flat set that was 180° from the normal look and tailored to his usual approach. The set was in an area far removed from the majority of the trapping pressure.

The odds usually catch up to even the wariest of coyotes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/07/22 02:28 PM

I really appreciate those who have taken the time to share their thoughts and insight on this thread.

There has been some good coyote conversation in these pages thanks to those who have stood up and participated.

Hopefully a few more coyote killers will weigh in before it’s all said and done.

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/07/22 05:51 PM

I agree with the statement play games on diging up traps.A few years ago i was trapping a place caught 6 or 7 right off the start.Then traps started being dug up.About a half mile away i had a bobcat set with alot of guiding.Few days there she was a big old female caught in the bodcat set.The diging stop i think she seen her pups from that year and the year before being caught and the game began

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/08/22 01:38 PM

The cattle guard corner strikes again!

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – G-Dog Urine

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/08/22 02:49 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I really appreciate those who have taken the time to share their thoughts and insight on this thread.

There has been some good coyote conversation in these pages thanks to those who have stood up and participated.

Hopefully a few more coyote killers will weigh in before it’s all said and done.

Thanks for the ride along. Also, appreciate you sharing your experiences and observations.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/09/22 01:13 PM

Here is a worked set that I thought the Crew would find interesting.

I wiped the sand back to show pan placement.

This flat had already taken two coyotes, with the last catch being made just over twenty days prior.

Notice the big concentration of tracks on both sides of the set at the edge of the spur road well away from ground zero.

[Linked Image]

I see this pacing behavior from time to time, but not in multiple spots along with a commitment.

It is apparent from the sign that there was a good bit of interest as well as apprehension.

The wind was blowing directly toward the viewer in the first photo.

Left Side
[Linked Image]

Right Side
[Linked Image]

Calling Card & Miss
[Linked Image]

This set picked up a coyote two days later.

I can’t help but wonder if this kind of response happens much more than we realize.

If it does, how do you counter this type of thing?

Do you folks see this kind of tomfoolery on your line?

Posted By: steeltraps

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/09/22 04:06 PM

Way to go Tejas ! Keep it up!

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/09/22 04:21 PM

I believe it happens a lot.

In my area the ground is mostly covered with grass, weeds or leaves so finding tracks around a set is near impossible until we get snow, however it seems more often than not the snow is preceded by sleet and freezing rain which puts the trap out of commission then we’re left with a tracking snow on top.

When this happens I see where coyotes have worked sets in the same manner you showed in the photos, only difference when the trap is crusted over with ice they seem to enjoy stepping right over the pan lol.

Had the trap not been iced over all the information would have been lost in the catch circle.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/09/22 05:51 PM

Tejas I believe one way to take advantage of the “ pacing behavior” you mentioned is to gang set and just leave things alone. Set more traps unscented around the area of your scented sets.
Harrell already mentioned that us midwest trappers don’t see the evidence of tracks like you do because of grasses, weeds and other ground covering. BUT I will experiment a bit next year with placing more traps WITHOUT attractors around the perimeter in my crop fields. These fields have a lot of ground that has been worked up and blending additional traps in won’t be had ...keeping them working from freeze up is another issue.
You have a unique situation with your soil type to make sets and keep them working easier due to the warm weather.

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/09/22 07:50 PM

When I saw that in snow.
It's at a remake, or a set near one.

Maybe, they sense a hollow spot under pan or unfrozen spot as trap bed.
When the set does freeze they dance all over it.

Maybe, the fox trapper in me made low spot over pan and it's avoided.

At one time I thought maybe, it was the poly fill. Nope.

No maybe about one thing, at that point they are in my head.

Nothing absolute I'm no expert,
just had nards enough to throw some kindling on the best fire on site.

One thing that did work a few times.
Maybe add few hidden sets close like mentioned.
Tampering in snow seemed taboo so NESSESARY to cover the whole area
with, anything to create a new clean slate.
Even chainsaw chips or ashes or, anything, after remaking the set that was froze or on it's way to freeze.

Posted By: J Harrell

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/10/22 01:14 AM

I'm right there with you W. Brothers, I'm far from an expert and they sure get in my head too.

I have seen the nervous pacing around remakes several times too but also have seen it around fresh sets with no remake in the area quite a bit also, but several of those sets hit shortly after the ice was gone.

Also while hunting yotes over bait piles through the years I've seen this same behavior with them approaching a bait pile, acting nervous pacing around and doing a lot of looking and sometimes will leave and return a little later or leave and not return.

It's worth noting though that when watching them approaching a bait pile it was often a single or sometimes a pair that showed this behavior, three or more usually don't waste much time digging into the bait.

My thinking is a lot of the time it's not anything we done wrong at a set it's just coyotes being coyotes and pacing around a set before they commit those critical few inches to work the set. Maybe a pecking order thing since other coyote smells are present?

Thank you TEJAS for starting this thread and sharing your knowledge with us and thanks to all the other coyote killers that have shared their knowledge with the group!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/10/22 11:57 PM

Good Stuff Fellas!

I’m not much on toy-type sets but I thought a few folks might be able to put this Idea to good use.

You can apply it to any item you want to keep in place.

In this case it is a small piece of scrap deer hide I found in a catch circle.

[Linked Image]

A little smear of lure and/or a shot of urine and you're good to go.

Minnesota Red & MB Fox Urine were used at this particular set.

[Linked Image]

When I keep my visual attractants on the subtle side I get better results.

This set is within a foot of a well used two track.

[Linked Image]

On a side note, I've found that sets in this category will usually pick up pups and juveniles.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/11/22 10:31 AM

The reason for the pacing is coyotes are naturally in a degree of caution all the time. I see it in snow all the time especially with a low population. I compare it to a traffic light; Coyote's light is seldom green. Mostly yellow. I see it the most at locations that have caught a few. Sometimes they'll avoid the location for weeks. Time to set another location. Or go 50 feet away and try a fresh set or both.
Bones work better than hide for toy sets for me anyway. Deer vertebrae staked. When they grab it and it won't come it agitates to the point they forget where their paws are.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/12/22 01:29 PM

Good insight and analogy G.

I have no doubt I could pick up additional coyotes if I took the time to put in more new sets after the original line was established.

In this area toy sets of any kind have been a tough sell no matter what the visual is. Coyotes here show very little interest in them for the most part.

They must work well in certain areas because they sure seem popular. I’ll hazard a guess and say they probably preform much better in lower pressure areas or an environment with a sparse food supply.

It would be nice if I could get them to work here because they're sure easy to make, remake, and refresh. From what I’ve seen the biggest hurdle with novelty sets is finding a visual they will work.

I guess it’s just a matter of showing them something that will interest them as well as something that they haven't come across before. Even with that accomplished you are only half way there.

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/12/22 03:23 PM

This has been a very interesting thread! Lots of great discussions and idea sharing. You all have pointed out things that have been happening on my lines and I didn’t even know it! Makes a guy rethink things for sure.

Posted By: Kermit

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/12/22 07:22 PM

Watch the night vision shoots for yotes on you tube. They act like hyenas at times

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B42SlwfMhr0

some good footage in his channel, not sure if it is this one

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/13/22 12:43 PM

I don't think habituation has been covered yet. I'll use my own experience to explain that. When GH2 first was offered coyotes didn't what do with it first. They'd do backflips to get at it. Set type didn't matter, it took all ages. The whole county smelled like GH2 LOL. After a couple seasons the attraction diminished to where they practically ignored it. It wasn't the lure, I overused it, it lost its attraction. Coyotes had become habituated to GH2. Lesson learned, Diversity in your attractors and set types pays off big time.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/13/22 12:49 PM

TG I had the exact same issue with GH2. First year it was dynamite but fell off bad after that.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/13/22 01:14 PM

Can you say GH3? Lol I agree Gary and Rob...change up attractors like the old reliable urine and droppings usually works in those cases. That’s why gang setting is so valuable...several different smelling sets at hot locations. I will add that having the ability to PICK UP those attractors via a container of sorts or like a toy
can help in habituation. Just my take

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/13/22 03:30 PM

I've seen it happen where a certain product is hot 1 year but not the next. I've also seen where certain products are hot every year and consistently produce. I'm not sure it's habituation to a certain lure. You know your sets are being avoided but is it because of a certain lure? Maybe sometimes, but how can pups the following year be habituated to it? I think it's perhaps because of some other reason we don't quite understand. Maybe there were certain things going on in their diet they were lacking that year so their bodies craved what was in a particular lure. We know different weather or times of the year can change how they react to some products. I'm not trying to disagree that they may become habituated, but perhaps there's more to it than we understand. Anyhow, I don't get too caught up in the habituation thing but if it's not producing change it up.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/13/22 04:15 PM

^^^ that last statement should be looked at as the most productive method. If that makes sense .

Posted By: Lazarus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/13/22 10:50 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

I've seen it happen where a certain product is hot 1 year but not the next. I've also seen where certain products are hot every year and consistently produce. I'm not sure it's habituation to a certain lure. You know your sets are being avoided but is it because of a certain lure? Maybe sometimes, but how can pups the following year be habituated to it? I think it's perhaps because of some other reason we don't quite understand. Maybe there were certain things going on in their diet they were lacking that year so their bodies craved what was in a particular lure. We know different weather or times of the year can change how they react to some products. I'm not trying to disagree that they may become habituated, but perhaps there's more to it than we understand. Anyhow, I don't get too caught up in the habituation thing but if it's not producing change it up.

You make some good points about the behavior we call habituation. We probably won't know all the reasons WHY it happens, we just know that it does happen.

One reason I interpret from that behavior is that most trappers don't pick up their lure or bait sticks at the end of the season. When I'm scouting for cats in the spring and summer, I'm always coming across old cat sets (I only trap public land), and I watch my dog. Some sets are so old he doesn't pay attention to them; some are recent enough he will eventually track down the lure stick and give it the once over. Occasionally I can see wet spots on the lure sticks and I can even identify the lure sometimes by holding it up to my nose.

One of the elements of a good lure is the element of novelty. If the critter has smelled that odor 1,000 times before, it may not have the same attraction or appeal as getting that first whiff of a new smell.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/15/22 02:01 PM

Good Coyote Conversation Fellas!

I believe the novelty of most new smells and looks can be lost very quickly. The thrill is gone so to speak.

A lot of that depends on how much time you spend in one area. Another factor is how much pressure those coyotes have been under in the past.

A lure gives the promise of a reward in many cases but never delivers.

Coyotes catch on to that fact extremely quick.

Good bait is a whole different story. It offers the potential for a reward based on past experiences with that particular smell. On the flip side, the visual can often negate the olfactory like in the case of a baited dirt hole set.

I have little doubt that coyotes catch on to the look of certain repeated visuals like your standard dirt hole. If that is the case, I don’t see any reason why they can’t make that same type of connection with smells on the olfactory side of things. It might even be an easier link to make than the visual.

Aside from habituation, if a coyote passes by a host of caught canines with the same distinct lure smell present I don’t think it takes them long to make that association as well. As with numerous other behaviors, I believe many of the pups learn to avoid what mom was shown too many times.

I try my best to keep them guessing on looks and smells so those associations are less likely to be made. By doing this their higher education stays at a minimum, the line produces to its potential, and less time is lost trying to pick up additional problem coyotes that have caught on to the game plan.

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/15/22 02:31 PM

I have to admit to doing most of the “wrong things” you all have discussed. Using the same lures, baits, and sets for several years now. In order to change things up is it enough to just change to a different bait base and lures from the same manufacturer? Or should you go to a totally different line of bait/lure?
Moving set locations might be harder to do. I usually make a dirt hole and a flat set of some type at the same area. Many times using the same hole for several years. I don’t pick up lures or cover holes but do pick up bones. Probably should do better!

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/16/22 11:48 AM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Can you say GH3? Lol I agree Gary and Rob...change up attractors like the old reliable urine and droppings usually works in those cases. That’s why gang setting is so valuable...several different smelling sets at hot locations. I will add that having the ability to PICK UP those attractors via a container of sorts or like a toy
can help in habituation. Just my take

GH3 worked but not like when GH2 first was released. I take everything with me, I even throw the rocks LOL. The best G&Ds have teeth marks. I don't dig holes partly for that reason. Gang setting flat works. It takes a lot of gear but it's worth it. When a location goes dead look 30 - 50 feet downwind. that's were new sets go. Their light is yellow so low-key flats seem to do best.
A female coyote can teach multiple litters to avoid danger. Then when she's gone the pups that learned carry that to the next generation. Maybe?

I have multiple lures that work well but I give a few a vacation and try new stuff every season. Does it matter? We can only speculate; we will really never know for sure. Intrigue is a biggy too. Dang coyotes anyway!

Awesome thread James

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/16/22 03:58 PM

Originally Posted by Old coy

In order to change things up is it enough to just change to a different bait base and lures from the same manufacturer? Or should you go to a totally different line of bait/lure?

Moving set locations might be harder to do. I usually make a dirt hole and a flat set of some type at the same area. Many times using the same hole for several years. I don’t pick up lures or cover holes but do pick up bones.

Whether you decide to use different smells from the same lure maker or switch to another brand, a new smell is a still new smell. I like to try what different makers have to offer.

If your bait has extra ingredients added it will probably have a distinct smell just like any other lure. When it comes to commercial baits you really have no idea what’s in them. I think those unnatural curiosity smells that are often times added to the mix can possibly make a coyote shy away from a spiked bait.

I have found that good fresh bait with only sodium benzoate added never loses its appeal.

I wouldn’t worry too much about removing bait as much as I would about removing the lure.

Even if you only move the set location a few yards it can often times make a big difference.

Keep in mind if you pour lure on the ground on down he hole like many other trappers, you no longer have the option to remove it.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/16/22 04:45 PM

Most commercial baits are lure's in my opinion glands musk added to most so bait has become a good lure.Bait and good urine is hard too beat,commercial or natural.

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/16/22 05:30 PM

Thanks for the explanations! This fall will be time to change some things up. Think I will break out the Lucero lures I have had on the shelf!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/17/22 02:47 PM

Originally Posted by Old coy

Thanks for the explanations! This fall will be time to change some things up. Think I will break out the Lucero lures I have had on the shelf!

Sounds like a solid plan Coy!.

Mr. Lucero’s lures have remained my top three producers since I started using them.

JL#1 has held the top spot, with Coyotero and Winter Wolf fighting for runner up.

I haven’t pulled out Night Train yet because his Big Three have continued to crush coyotes.

I still rotate a good number of other proven smells to hold interest and not burn up any one lure.

Out of all the attractants I use each year, Mr. Lucero’s continue to hold the top three positions.

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/17/22 03:07 PM

The Big 3 are what’s on my shelf! Andy’s Western Lure will still have a slot in the bag!
Thanks for doing this thread!!

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/18/22 12:56 PM

What Laz stated about the first whiff is priceless.

The best sets Known to man all have one thing in common, A focal point. The best advise I've ever got was give them a target to focus on.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/18/22 04:46 PM

Ding ding ding ! Pretty hard to direct they’re feet without directing they’re attention. Most of my remakes become walk through sets of some sort . Otherwise I try to get they’re feet where I want them by putting the eyes and nose where I want . Even a walk through gives them some direction.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/19/22 12:48 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

The best sets Known to man all have one thing in common, A focal point.

The best advice I've ever got was give them a target to focus on.

I agree in part G.

One trapper’s idea of a focal point can be a lot different from another.

I’ve see folks squirt urine all over a large backing and call it good.

In doing so you have created a big focal point that makes it much more difficult to narrow down foot placement.

It’s much easier to determine pan placement when your attractant is in a pinpoint area.

With that in mind, one focal point will only give you so much foot traffic.

I have found that two attractants properly positioned will create much more foot traffic than a single smell.

For me, the most deadly sets and attractants are the ones that create the most foot traffic.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/19/22 01:58 PM

The focal points can be multiple, it can be a stick with lure or a squirt of urine. Or a dropping, you'll never see me spray urine all over. Their good shots LOL. Some say if the lure is good others aren't needed, you and I know better from seeing what actually happens at and around the sets. I've been experimenting with double grass clumps to get extra paw traffic, still haven't perfected that but I'm getting close.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 12:24 PM

This male was caught at the entrance to an old bone yard.

[Linked Image]

The lure was made by a good friend and trapper from Montana.

It is a straight female coyote gland.

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – Female Coyote Gland – G-Dog Urine

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 12:50 PM

How about a little Coyote Crew Q & A?

When it comes to catching adult coyotes, in what order would you rank these sets according to their effectiveness on your own individual lines?

Toy Set
Flat Set
Dirt Hole
Blind Set
Scent Post

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 02:59 PM

I can’t answer without explaining that my dirt holes double as a urine set as I not only drill a hole with bait in it I also use coyote urine at the backing ( however subtle it may be ) . The dirt hole is my most productive set , but keep in mind I consider a cached set a dirt hole, or should I say the original dirt hole . The second most productive set is what I call a flat set . You may call it a toy set as I use a pipe to put bait in . You should also know the pipe is nearly invisible as I drive it into a clump of sod or cornstalk root or ..... some may call this same set a grab and die because the pipe is not easy to pull from the ground. These two types of sets and a variety of them ( double dirt holes ) make up about 70 percent of my line finished out with trash mounds and flat sets using a turd and urine or a tuft of grass with a small amount of lure and or urine.

I try and keep it simple and easily repeatable.

I should also mention that my trash mound sets are baited with a hand full of mouse nest stuffed in a hole on the down wind side of the mound.
Most of my locations get 3 sets , each with a different smell .

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 03:26 PM

My list would be:
Flat set
Dirt hole
Scent post
Toy set
Blind set

Flat sets are a combo of walk throughs. Using any lure that isn’t, as far as I know, straight gland.

Scent posts are made using, what I believe to be, a straight gland lure and urine.

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 04:35 PM

Here is my list
Dirt hole
Flat set
Toy set
Blind set
Post set

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 04:57 PM

Variations of the dirt hole and flat set would take the most adult coyotes for me. That's what I use the most. Don't really ever waste my time on toy or blind sets. Blind sets would probably be a killer on adult coyotes but I don't use them because a lot of other animals are on the same trail.

I know you're are talking footholds but I've seen a lot of old, adult coyotes fall victim to snares. Nothing more natural than snagging them as they cruise down a trail oblivious to the loop ahead of them.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/21/22 11:16 PM

Flat set
scent post
toy set
blind set
dirt hole

Most of my sets are some variation of a flat set. My scent post sets, I don't call scent posts, but a pee post or gland lure and urine. The post is usually something natural, whether a small bush, old stump, rock, snow hump, or simply a pile of coyote, wolf, or dog crap with urine shot on it and possibly gland lure. The only "toy" sets I make are using a bone, most often a t-bone as a attractor and backing. Everything except a pee post I generally call a flat set, and pee posts and variations of flat sets make up at least 80% of my sets. Blind sets I only make in the snow, where they can be very effective, have a good chance of picking up a wary old canine. Dirt holes are something I just don't make that often. I throw one in now and then as a changeup, and they catch stuff, I just figure almost everything I can catch in a dirthole I can catch in a flat set and they are more likely to be wary of a dirthole. Also I'm often trapping in frozen ground where digging is a pain, or in rocks, or in snow. So it is easier to make a flat set or pee post.

Caught a pair of adult coyotes today, and the male was about as big as I've come across here. He was caught in a flat set/scent post with a pile of coyote crap (some old and already there, added to with a turd squeezed out of a coyote caught the day I made the set) with gland lure and urine. The female was caught 50 yards away in a flat set with a cowpie backing and some Violater 7 under it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/22/22 11:35 AM

It is very interesting to see what works best for trappers in different areas of the country.

I often wonder if the effectiveness of any one set is simply determined by the population and pressure a specific area or state sees overall.

I think that in many cases it may be just a matter of personal preference and what a trapper has the most confidence in on their line.

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/22/22 02:02 PM

I agree with what you’re thinking on this.

Population affects competition for food, mates and territory.

Pressure affects responses to both increased or decreased exposures.

Preference will decide which type set is used and our favorite set is used more often.

Confidence in what you’re doing is a real thing. If you’re second guessing as the set is made, it won’t be as effective.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/23/22 12:02 AM

For adult coyotes I use flat sets almost exclusively. The number of variations is limited only by your imagination.

Some flats work much better than others for me. I think the look you show them on these types of sets can really help reel them in.

Blind trail sets come in second when I have a coyote or two that has put my flat sets on ignore. I tend to snag a lot of older coyotes with blinds.

It is amazing how effective they can be when placed correctly according to what the current recon mission had to offer. Off the radar coyotes never see that blind set coming 200 yards down the trail from a series of gang sets they know is there.

Rarely do I use toy, post, or hole sets anymore.

I think the post set has the potential to work well on pressured ground, but I need to really up my game to be more effective with it.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/23/22 12:58 PM

I have a short list LOL, Flat sets
Blind sets

Scent posts are just a variation of the flat set determined by the scent I use. Some with backings some without. Grab and dies and toys for some. Variation is key. The possibilities are endless.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/23/22 02:49 PM

80% flat sets,15% trench hole and 5% blind sets are what I use.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/24/22 06:28 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

I have a short list:

Flat sets
Blind sets

Variation is key. The possibilities are endless.

You Betcha' G !

For me, the flat and blind set is without a doubt the most deadly on adult coyotes.

I’ll go out on a limb and say that a good percentage of trappers don't venture far past the hole set when it comes to Wile E.

Learning how to be more effective with a variety of looks as well as knowing when to make a change or adjustment will boost any trapper’s numbers on the line.

It is all about keeping your population of coyotes guessing. Visual variation is just one of many effective ways to accomplish that task.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/25/22 12:41 PM

This coyote hit a string of three flat sets several times before he finally slipped up.

[Linked Image]

Adjustments were made and the contestant was caught.

[Linked Image]

Male – Flat Set – MB Fox Urine – Winter Wolf

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/27/22 12:05 AM

Here’s a set of sheds that were picked up recently. A lot of points were broken off during the rut.

One main beam measured over 29 inches.The rack will tape out well over 200.

Those are a bunch of good reasons for killing every coyote I can.

[Linked Image]

Some folks say you can’t eat the antlers.

It’s a good thing blackstrap comes with them.

That's just one more reason to trap Wile E.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/27/22 01:36 AM

Those look good enough to eat,can't eat antlers,but they sure look good on the wall.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/27/22 11:33 AM

May not can eat antlers, but the money you can make off of them will put more food in the pantry

Up here I have decided antlers just dissolve into the ground within about 2 days as we never find many

My focus is on a pair that have been lurking around the back yard, trying to get a chicken dinner

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/27/22 12:15 PM

Good morning guys, Tejas I’m going to throw you a curveball today...considering that you and most others use a version of a flat set for adults...basically no holes used, I can only theorize that a hole set might just be your answer for a change up to hit the predators with next season. What say you? Considering that coyotes are born in a series of holes, some their prey that they hunt are born in holes, etc...I just can’t see where a version of a hole set wouldn’t be effective even on the wised up adults...SOME OF THE TIME. Now an olfactory attractor doesn’t have to be used at the set per say but there are a variety of ways to incorporate holes into catching even the older adults. Just my take on this topic

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/27/22 12:38 PM

One dirt hole variation that works for the wise guys for me is a shallow trench deal with a prize in the bottom. I make it look like were a fox or a coyote dug up a mouse or vole.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/27/22 01:06 PM

Gary consider having a longer time frame on your line with good weather/ soil conditions to work with...the different variations of sets that could be made/ tested on coyotes? With these fur prices it may turn into that...population control instead of fur trapping.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/28/22 06:44 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Good morning guys, Tejas I’m going to throw you a curveball today...considering that you and most others use a version of a flat set for adults...basically no holes used, I can only theorize that a hole set might just be your answer for a change up to hit the predators with next season. What say you? Considering that coyotes are born in a series of holes, some their prey that they hunt are born in holes, etc...I just can’t see where a version of a hole set wouldn’t be effective even on the wised up adults...SOME OF THE TIME. Now an olfactory attractor doesn’t have to be used at the set per say but there are a variety of ways to incorporate holes into catching even the older adults. Just my take on this topic

I see where you are going with this. MChewk. I agree that what’s old could once again be new.

When you take into consideration the versatility and effectiveness of the flat set it’s hard to go back to punching holes.

When you compare the pros and cons of the two I can’t help but wonder why trappers don’t use more flats.

I will give your suggestion an honest try next year after the pressure has been on for a while.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/28/22 07:03 PM

While we are on the subject of hole sets we might as well discuss some of the the different variations and their effectiveness.

What has been your best and worst producing dirt hole set over the years?

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/28/22 10:21 PM

My worst producing hole set is the standard open pattern type with one hole. Short trench set with the trap blended and a pile of dirt to the upwind side is the best. Sorta like Seldom's disco set. But is it worth the extra time to dig or drill a hole or trench?

Another is an elevated poke hole in a clump of grass or a stump. I know what your sayin Mike but this is lake effect country, I seldom get 2 days without rain or snow.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/28/22 10:42 PM

In a perfect world Gary...lol
Let me give a for instance...on having more time....back in the late 90s when coyotes were thick here...I remember not be able to find two traps due to deep snow. Season ended so I let the landowner know the situation. This particular field had already produced over 10 coons and possums and 15 coyotes. It was a hot location near a rail road tracks with a nearby creek. A week later snow melted a bit and the farmer called telling me that I had a double on coyotes. 17 coyotes out of a smallish field...how many more could have been caught with 30 - 60 days of additional time. And that was terrible conditions.
I say the longer those traps sit set the better. Throw in soul conditions where you can see tracks and keep traps working and a guy could put a real hurtin’ on the population....until a new group migrates in..lol

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/28/22 11:14 PM

Big dirt holes are the worst producing for me. Small wobble hole or double wobble hole made with metal trap stake works the best for me.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 01:16 AM

Here are a few set and location photos from the 17-18 season. I was still punching holes and using backing at the time.

These three inch hole sets guard opposite sides of a dry creek bed. The set photo is followed by a location pic.

Coyotes showed me right out of the gate that the bigger the hole the harder it is to guard.

With that in mind I started to crowd the lip as close as I could when using this look.

[Linked Image]

I've found that when you make a set on the side of an embankment it can really alter the way a coyote works the set.

This was an attempt to guard the added real estate of the bigger presentation.

Under most circumstances I usually make any hole set on flat ground.

[Linked Image]

I would normally be only inches from the edge of the road. Using the bank set me back several yards.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 01:39 AM

This set is at a junction that has produced a lot of coyotes.

[Linked Image]

They avoided this offering like the plague when other hole sets in the area were hammering.

[Linked Image]

Big holes were consistently my lowest producer of any of the variations no matter where the set was made.

Keep in mind they still caught coyotes; they just didn’t perform as well as other looks.

Posted By: Old coy

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 03:15 AM

The holes that are made into an abrupt bank don’t seem to work very well for me. Especially if the coyotes can’t see over it easily. I think it does help if the hole is more of a slot dug into the face.

The wobble holes that are covered with a low object; cow pies, flat rocks, flattened rusty cans, etc,; seem to be the best for older coyotes. Is this basically a flat set variation?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 02:51 PM

Here are a few of the more 3 inch hole sets from the same season made on level ground.

The attractant list was bait down the hole, lure and urine in the backing, and a little wool for a visual.

[Linked Image]

I think the addition of a visual like wool or hair can really help sell the deal on some coyotes.

As with any attractant it should not be overused.

[Linked Image]

These did produce a couple of coyotes, but the set itself was easily defeated.

With so much area to protect, side digging was always an issue with the bigger holes.

That alone may be why lt has not produced like other sets.

[Linked Image]

I believe most of the catches with this look were younger coyotes.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 03:09 PM

Big holes like badger holes etc produce the least up here also,like stated earlier harder to keep misses down to guard the hole,making a u shape trench helps,but it's way easier to just make a flat set.Hole's do have there place on a trapline,double punch holes,peep holes or 1 to 2" holes,post hole set but some of these take more effort to make,I also think more hole type sets catch more of the younger coyotes so yes they do work,a dead coyote is a good coyote no matter what set it was caught in!

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 05:26 PM

I use a 2in hole a lot of my sets look like the ones in pictures.I think from the time that they come out of the den they learn a hole could mean food.Grasshoppers, moles , mice ,rats, snakes and what ever some else has buried.Dirt hole sets are my go to set.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/29/22 08:05 PM

This thought might raise some disagreements but I don't feel that holes mean much for food to a coyote. They peek interest but coyotes are hunters and opportunists. I don't feel they expend the energy or effort to dig for something they'll never be able to get to. Sure they may scratch or dig at something they feel is shallow but I don't see them digging up holes ground squirrels, rabbits, or kangaroo rats run in. Coyotes will catch those critters off guard in the weeds or in the open.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/30/22 01:52 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

This thought might raise some disagreements but I don't feel that holes mean much for food to a coyote. They peek interest but coyotes are hunters and opportunists. I don't feel they expend the energy or effort to dig for something they'll never be able to get to. Sure they may scratch or dig at something they feel is shallow but I don't see them digging up holes ground squirrels, rabbits, or kangaroo rats run in. Coyotes will catch those critters off guard in the weeds or in the open.

I agree 100% Silky.

The visual of the hole itself is not where the magic lies. If that was the case, every rodent hole in the area would be blown out. I see hundreds of active ground squirrel holes along fence lines where coyotes pass every night and there are zero digs. They don’t dig because they know they can’t get to them on their own.

Even with an added visual like wool, hair, or feathers, it still doesn’t have the power to hold a coyote’s attention for very long as a stand-alone.

In short, the purpose of the hole is to guard the bait.

I discovered early on that a coyote will only dig in earnest if they truly think they can get to the prize.

Posted By: Squash Bucket

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 04/30/22 04:05 PM

Appreciate the pictures and information, following closely and plan to apply some of these tactics on an upcoming job this Summer.

What county in South Texas are you trapping? I'm currently in Hidalgo County visiting family.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/01/22 12:55 AM

I don’t have rats , at least not like I’ve seen in Kansas in the sand. But I do have mice and know that coyotes actively work them . Maybe that’s why I have confidence in a hole set . Or maybe it’s because of a guy named Bob that we can’t talk about , or a guy named Robert that caught nearly a thousand coyotes a couple years ago in one fur season . I know both of them use exclusively hole sets all year every year in all regions of the country. Don’t get me wrong I have nothing against a flat set , I’m not going to knock it nor ignore it. But it’s pretty hard for me to put all my eggs in one basket knowing that holes produce numbers for the two largest producers of coyotes of our time . By all means use what works best for each situation. For me it’s a hole with a fresh piece of natural bait or a mouse nest.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/01/22 04:28 PM

I couldn’t agree more GB.

You make a great point. All situations are indeed different.

I believe everyone would agree that jumping from location to location skimming the cream verses predation trapping where you are trying to kill every coyote you can are two totally different things.

When you run and gun you’re not there long enough for the coyotes to catch on. That same tactic may not apply to folks that trap the same ground all season, or ADC men working the high pressure crew.

The flat a far cry from a one dimensional set. It’s so versatile you can easily go without repeating the same exact look in a day’s worth of setting. That is what makes it so deadly.

My experience has been that the same does not hold true with the hole set no matter what the variation is. Pressured coyotes catch on to repeated patterns extremely quick. That is a fact that can’t be ignored.

All the trappers that have taken the time to post here are just sharing experiences, observations, and what they have learned on their own individual lines.

Nothing in coyote trapping is absolute.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/01/22 04:45 PM

Originally Posted by Squash Bucket

Appreciate the pictures and information, following closely and plan to apply some of these tactics on an upcoming job this Summer.

You Betcha' !

A lot of solid coyote trappers have helped make this thread worth reading.

There's some good information to be had for those that keep an open mind and want to up their coyote game.

Good luck on the line this summer Squash!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/01/22 08:38 PM

Tejas good thread ...it allows Trappers to consider a wide variety of conditions and options.
My take on successful dirtholes and not so successful...my best luck back when I first started on land was a stake wobble hole with Hawbakers red fox lure in it....caught reds grays coon possum and skunk...no coyotes back then. Found out later that EVERYONE was using standard dirthole dug out with shovel...so my success MIGHT have been due to something different. Later when coyotes showed up in the late 80s early 90s I continued to use my stake wobble hole but added one due to information gained at a Fur Takers convention demo...so double stake hole two different attractors. My problem was my equipment as I was poor and didn’t have much in traps or trap mods. So #2 sq jaw Victor traps or low lever # 1 1/2 coils didn’t hold many of our big coyotes. Held a few and mostly all of the other animals but experienced lots of wrecks.
Later, my go to dirt hole was O’G influenced big dirthole with a bigger stronger trap both bait and lure down hole and catch went up and stayed up. Love the big badger holes with loud bait.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/02/22 02:43 AM

Lol, Tejas you must not know who I’m talking about as they both do coyote work year round .

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/02/22 09:41 AM

Wonder how many DHs an elder Pa. coyote has seen.
And how many trappers he has encountered.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/02/22 12:54 PM

That is a true statement Wright Brothers. In Pa. early on with all the pups out and about D Holes work well. Coyotes get considerable trapping pressure all across the State. Once the weather goes South many call it a day. At that time the air is filled with skunk odor, call lures, food lures, baits of all kinds and various urines.

Then in a few short weeks that new interest trend will slow and in many cases cease considerably depending upon the pressure. I call it the great awakening. It happens yearly. Those coyotes that made it thru so far have a different view of their world, and what they perceive as each week moves along in the season.

Suspicion and caution becomes more evident in their decision making process in how and if they commit to a set.

Those trappers that stick to dirt holes, big patterns and high eye appeal sets say that their lure or bait doesn't work anymore. Not understanding fully what is really taking place. Those that transition to flat sets, trail sets, walk throughs and scent post type sets will continue to connect. The others not so much.

Most don't have access or the opportunities that feed lots and dump stations provide. Those animals are conditioned to grub and compete for food opportunities as a result of the draw these places have provided. Given the vast agricultural and cattle rearing areas some animals will travel many miles to visit these sites. Multiply catches are quite common and expected with these conditions and the basic dirt holes are quite effective due to the opportunity competition between these animals.

You just have to understand what is taking place in your region or on your trapping grounds. Then make your adjustments accordingly. Tejas and others have shared good information which brings to light how different areas and conditions may need to be handled for continued success.

Coyotes are still coyotes, however the conditions under which they are exposed on a regular basis may be vastly different from what we are working with locally. Coyotes are remarkably adaptive animals and they will continue to evolve along the way. We have to do the same if we are to have continued success.

At some point we all will have to learn to live beyond the Dirt Hole when circumstances reveal that is what is needed. If not, I guess as some would say, they are leaving seed for the next year.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/02/22 01:58 PM

That sums it up,great response Bob.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/03/22 10:58 AM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

That is a true statement Wright Brothers. In Pa. early on with all the pups out and about D Holes work well. Coyotes get considerable trapping pressure all across the State. Once the weather goes South many call it a day. At that time the air is filled with skunk odor, call lures, food lures, baits of all kinds and various urines.

Then in a few short weeks that new interest trend will slow and in many cases cease considerably depending upon the pressure. I call it the great awakening. It happens yearly. Those coyotes that made it thru so far have a different view of their world, and what they perceive as each week moves along in the season.

Suspicion and caution becomes more evident in their decision making process in how and if they commit to a set.

Those trappers that stick to dirt holes, big patterns and high eye appeal sets say that their lure or bait doesn't work anymore. Not understanding fully what is really taking place. Those that transition to flat sets, walk throughs and scent post type sets will continue to connect. The others not so much.

Most don't have access or the opportunities that feed lots and dump stations provide. Those animals are conditioned to grub and compete for food opportunities as a result of the draw these places have provided. Given the vast agricultural and cattle rearing areas some animals will travel many miles to visit these sites. Multiply catches are quite common and expected with these conditions and the basic dirt holes are quite effective due to the opportunity competition between these animals.

You just have to understand what is taking place in your region or on your trapping grounds. Then make your adjustments accordingly. Tejas and others have shared good information which brings to light how different areas and conditions may need to be handled for continued success.

Coyotes are still coyotes, however the conditions under which they are exposed on a regular basis may be vastly different from what we are working with locally. Coyotes are remarkably adaptive animals and they will continue to evolve along the way. We have to do the same if we are to have continued success.

At some point we all will have to learn to live beyond the Dirt Hole when circumstances reveal that is what is needed. If not, I guess as some would say, they are leaving seed for the next year.

Thanks for your input Mr. Jameson.

"Well said" would be an understatement.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/03/22 11:12 AM

Folks need to keep in mind that the dynamics of the line are ever- changing.

What is happening at a particular location in week one will not remotely be the same a month later.

The most savvy and effective trappers pick up on even the slightest changes and adjust accordingly.

I believe a lot of trappers go on auto pilot and do the same thing over and over again with little thought put into what they or the coyotes are doing on their line.

Part of my objective is to challenge folks to think outside the box a little more in all aspects of coyote trapping.

When you limit your options you reduce your effectiveness.

In many cases small changes can make a big difference.

When you are on the line class is in session. Pay attention in class.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/03/22 12:50 PM

Right on. This forum is a great source for information, tactics. But it really shines in making me think about my trap line and animals.

My advice to anyone on this forum is to take what you like and apply it to your area, and leave the rest. There are no absolutes in trapping.

There is a little bit of arguing, back and forth. There are a few sore-heads. But most are generous with their experiences and information. Those are the ones to listen to. Thank you trappers. You know who you are.

The smart trappers will use ANY and EVERY trick they find. I have learned so much on this thread in particular.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/03/22 03:32 PM

Good advice Centex.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/04/22 12:23 PM

The big producers go to where there's lots of coyotes, so the greed factor is epic. If you trap where the populations are lower variation in set types and attractors pays off big time. Besides that, I get bored doing the same thing over and over. For myself every set is a work of art that we create to fool the coyote, no two are alike. Your imagination is the only limit. Ounce you learn the animal it all makes sense. With less coyotes and less permission to trap on you have to squeeze the lemon. I trap for fur with a control trappers' attitude. I've studied the coyote since the first arrived here, still a ton to learn. That's the magic!

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/04/22 02:53 PM

I think your 100 percent correct, when it comes to coyotes you never quite learn it all as they are probably the smartest predator we face. When it comes to trapping I never put all my eggs in one basket. I never use just dp’s when dealing with coon , 160’s in trails , 220’s in boxes and even a 1.5 in a trail or a pocket. With beaver in my area that is made up of a network of creeks and drainage ditches, it seems like they show up educated. If you go at them with one type of trap or set construction you will find yourself humbled very quickly. I use 2 types of sets for coyotes unless you count all the variations then it would seem more like 5 or 6 lol.
All of that being said I use a lot of different flat sets and 3 types of dirt holes . Yet my dirt holes seem to out perform all others . Yes I have confidence in the dirt holes but I can’t help but think it’s more than just confidence. If so many of you think the flat set is far superior to the dirt hole then maybe I need to work harder on perfecting the flat set. Maybe I’m a little off in my trap placement or maybe it’s the urine or lure placement. The other side of the coin would be that you folks that are not having any luck with dirt holes are doing something wrong , lol I’m not trying to pick a fight here and I mean that. I would love to be more productive but I can’t catch more coyotes than what my area will produce . Last year I was out of coyotes by Christmas, I can’t catch what’s not there. I’ve been at this for over 50 years and over 30 years of it has been geared toward coyotes. I still get asked to trap a few beaver and coon every year . And it should be stated that I don’t keep notes, that being said it’s pretty easy to remember that I set 3 traps at each location at the beginning of season . One flat set , one dirt hole and maybe a different dirt hole or a toy ( pipe ) set and yet it’s pretty easy to say two thirds of my catches come from dirt hole sets while maybe 20 percent come from a pipe set. I should point out that the pipe accounts for close to 20 percent of my catch it is only about 50 percent on the first approach by a coyote.
Have I had coyotes approach dirt holes without a catch the first time ? Yes but it’s probably less than 10 percent of the time , it is almost 100 percent affective when it’s a double dirt hole. I’m not trying to brag about my double dirt hole I’m trying to figure out why one third of my sets are flat sets but they don’t account for one third of my catch ?

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/04/22 03:53 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

I think your 100 percent correct, when it comes to coyotes you never quite learn it all as they are probably the smartest predator we face. When it comes to trapping I never put all my eggs in one basket. I never use just dp’s when dealing with coon , 160’s in trails , 220’s in boxes and even a 1.5 in a trail or a pocket. With beaver in my area that is made up of a network of creeks and drainage ditches, it seems like they show up educated. If you go at them with one type of trap or set construction you will find yourself humbled very quickly. I use 2 types of sets for coyotes unless you count all the variations then it would seem more like 5 or 6 lol.
All of that being said I use a lot of different flat sets and 3 types of dirt holes . Yet my dirt holes seem to out perform all others . Yes I have confidence in the dirt holes but I can’t help but think it’s more than just confidence. If so many of you think the flat set is far superior to the dirt hole then maybe I need to work harder on perfecting the flat set. Maybe I’m a little off in my trap placement or maybe it’s the urine or lure placement. The other side of the coin would be that you folks that are not having any luck with dirt holes are doing something wrong , lol I’m not trying to pick a fight here and I mean that. I would love to be more productive but I can’t catch more coyotes than what my area will produce . Last year I was out of coyotes by Christmas, I can’t catch what’s not there. I’ve been at this for over 50 years and over 30 years of it has been geared toward coyotes. I still get asked to trap a few beaver and coon every year . And it should be stated that I don’t keep notes, that being said it’s pretty easy to remember that I set 3 traps at each location at the beginning of season . One flat set , one dirt hole and maybe a different dirt hole or a toy ( pipe ) set and yet it’s pretty easy to say two thirds of my catches come from dirt hole sets while maybe 20 percent come from a pipe set. I should point out that the pipe accounts for close to 20 percent of my catch it is only about 50 percent on the first approach by a coyote.
Have I had coyotes approach dirt holes without a catch the first time ? Yes but it’s probably less than 10 percent of the time , it is almost 100 percent affective when it’s a double dirt hole. I’m not trying to brag about my double dirt hole I’m trying to figure out why one third of my sets are flat sets but they don’t account for one third of my catch ?

Golf ball,
My experiences and success with flat sets vs dirtholes are identical to yours.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/04/22 04:00 PM

GB, you bring out some good points. I think everyone has a little variation to how they set. Distance, guiding, and size of hole seems to make a difference from what I observed. For example, I've tried to match some successful guys sets in the past and noticed misses. So I adjusted things to what I observed and have come to be very successful for my style and what works for me but maybe not others. When using bigger dirt holes like some of the guys you mentioned, I seen more misses and the coyotes not coming in as close than when I used a smaller hole. Perhaps the remedy would be just to move the trap farther back.

I also applied what studies suggested. That a coyote will approach the set from the downwind side at a 45 degree angle 9 out of 10 times. So I never blocked the sides down. For the most part that is true but I started seeing some misses where the coyote would come in at a parallel or almost 90 degree approach and be stepping in front of the pan. So I started putting a small dirt clods or pieces of scat about a 1" out and down from dirt holes and that pretty much eliminated that. I'll be honest, I still have times when they miss the pan or go in from the back side but not like I use to before I made adjustments to my set making. So I believe it's the little nuances each of us do but not really noticeable to others that makes our sets successful for us.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/05/22 02:24 PM

I will have to give credit where credit is due. I think I read in these pages that the angle of the hole dictates trap placement. When I first read this I was putting a trap out front and half the time the trap was up wind . I still caught coyotes but when you put a trap 10” 12” or even 14” out from a hole that is from 10 to 45 degrees into a small hill side , let’s just say it leaves a lot of room for misses. I would like to say that I read about the angle of the hole having a direct affect on trap placement and it changed my way of doing things. It didn’t ! I’m a little hard headed sometimes. What it took was a couple more years of pheasant hunting. Yea at the time my son and I had a pretty good little bird dog and we hunted just about every weekend . The little dog was good enough that we got invited to hunt all over 2 countries. While trekking all over some good pheasant ground I kept finding parts of both pheasant and rabbits and bits that I could not identify in shallow holes. These holes were not all that noticeable, sometimes not big enough to completely hide the contents. Sometimes the holes would be 5” wide sometimes 8” but always strait down . These holes were fairly consistent in depth , about 8” at most but the one thing I noticed was they always went strait down .
I hate to say it but I was still putting an angle on my dirt holes but by now I was also using a cachet set with a piece of deer liver. Yea you guessed it , I dug them in at an angle too. It wasn’t until I started using an auger to make holes that I had this great idea to put my hole in almost strait up and down . Wow I can’t believe the difference it made . Now a coyote needs to put his feet right up close to the hole to put his nose in the hole . It didn’t take me too long to figure out where to put my trap .
Today on a single dirt hole the angle is about 80 to 85* and my trap is nearly touching the hole with a little offset to the left. Is it 100 % ? No but it’s a lot more affective than the way I used to do things . Some will say it’s not natural to dig a hole strait down , I say it is from what I’ve seen .
I hope what I’ve written here helps someone out , now if someone can get my straitened or on the flat set it would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. Go slow it only took me a few years to see the error or should I say angle of my ways.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/05/22 03:10 PM

Next are a few garden variety hole sets from 17-18 . The set photo is followed by location.

The routine was bait down the hole with lure and urine in or on the backing.

This look performed better than the three inch version and was much easier to guard.

Pan placement was around eight inches straight out from the hole.

This spacing and alignment worked well for this look.

1½” Auger

[Linked Image]

1½” Punch

Coyotes were running the smooth track just to the left of the set.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/05/22 03:57 PM

I would think around here anyway that any coyote around would have to at least mark that . If they are not shy of it I can’t help but think that set could double as a walk through.

Last picture anyway .

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/05/22 05:11 PM

I would have a few marking scent placement objects that would stand out along that roadway with other lured and baited sets. I am with golf ball on their urge to mark along most any travel way. Those types of sets are very effective if placed and developed well. You must be subtle with your scent amount used.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/05/22 11:04 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

I would have a few marking scent placement objects that would stand out along that roadway with other lured and baited sets.

I must admit Mr. Jameson that I didn’t incorporate many of those types of sets on my line at that time.

I have to go back to the 17-18 season to even find hole set photos for illustration.

Like a lot of trappers, I only had confidence in what I was familiar with and what had worked well in the past.

I was going to keep feeding them hole sets as long as they would keep hitting them. Shortly after I made that statement they showed me the error of my ways.

The last set photo was short line of ten to twelve traps that were all hole sets. They took around fifteen coyotes off a stretch about a quarter of a mile long.

That was around the same time I realized that Wile E. was catching on to hole sets of any type.

I didn’t switch from the DH set on my own accord. The coyotes forced me to change if I wanted to stay productive.

That is when I went to the blind trail and flat set.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/05/22 11:56 PM

I don’t have a recent picture that shows what my landscape looks like. [Linked Image]

This kinda sums up why I can’t use blind trail sets, lol no trails . This old guy is a casualty of a flat set ( urine on a stump ) that sat for a month without a visit. He is one of the few coyotes I’ve ever caught that really tried to eat me as I worked to get Lee’s hammer around his neck .

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/06/22 12:03 AM

Nice old grumpy male Don!
This the kind of landscape pic your looking for Don? No trails just mud that freezes at night.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/06/22 12:40 AM

Got mud ? Looks like an ad for Mark Zaggers Rob . Yea you know what I’m talking about, I did get to see the type of trails these fellas are talking about when I was down in Kansas. Looked like the cows retired and the coyotes took over.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/06/22 01:54 PM

Yote and Golf, do you guys have a lot of deer in the areas you trap in?

The vast majority of my blind sets are made on deer trails.

Some of my best locations for BT sets are game trails that run through open pastures.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/06/22 03:52 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Yote and Golf, do you guys have a lot of deer in the areas you trap in?

The vast majority of my blind sets are made on deer trails.

Some of my best locations for BT sets are game trails that run through open pastures.

Do you did anything to try and keep the deer from tripping the traps?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/06/22 08:24 PM

Tons of deer here. Rarely do I get to trap a pasture. Most of my line is grass strips such as two tracks, crop changes and water ways. These areas are the only cover other than elevation changes on most of my line. I seek out areas away from deer to avoid the hunters not so much the deer. Lol trails are a rare thing here but some do exist and are usually set.
Once the fields are worked and the rain comes I believe the vast majority of prey is found in these grassy areas. Hawks seem to hit these areas hard which tells me there is food there and the yotes will follow. The hardest thing here is the weather freezing mud is hard to keep operating in. Thank goodness for waxed dirt.
If you have an elevation change and a setable location it’s a dead yote walking.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/06/22 08:31 PM

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 12:26 AM

Yote , I thought you fellas had more timber to go with those agricultural fields.

I have seen the photos out of your shootin’shack many times but I didn’t realize your country was that open.

It looks like those grass buffers are where everything would naturally gravitate to.

Dry round looks to be in short supply out there to say the least.

It appears you don’t necessarily set where you want to as much as where you can.

Are there not a lot of old fencerows or tree lines out that way, or are the fields so big they are off in the distance?

Posted By: Willy Firewood

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 02:49 AM

The photos of mud look much more familiar!
Trapping for mudballs.

Running a line where it is usually dry and above freezing for a few weeks would be a fantasy!
I need to go on an adventure.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 03:04 AM

Tejas you are right on all accounts. It still amazes me how many yote tracks are ankle deep out in that mud. We have less fencerows every year. Excellent set locations when you can find them. In the wide open mud any little pocket of brush gets investigated and if you can get a set in it’s usually worth it.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 03:08 AM

My favorite locations if I can get to them and there is enough stable ground to force in a set are corner posts. I never incorporate the post into the set it’s just a feature that it’s easy to get the yotes to investigate.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 03:14 AM

One thing I think a lot of guys over look are elevation changes in wide open flat ground. To the left of this pic is a road. A yote in the grass is easily seen from the road. That is a dangerous thing for him to do in my country. I would have much rather caught him in the grass but all the sign was over the lip of the two track. Those sets outperformed sets up in the grass 8 to 1 in this location. 1.5’ of elevation is enough to hide a yote and they know it. They can be almost invisible in corn stubble with a little drop or rise in the field.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 03:21 AM

Elevation killed them here. 7 yotes in this set over about three weeks.

[Linked Image]

Elevation and a post. Gold!

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 12:34 PM

You got it yoteguts, especially on prairie and flat ground with some highways nearby. It can make a big difference in an animals acceptance and preference as to where they will commit more readily to a set offering. I most always consider that factor in my set locations unless other sign shows differently and the wind is good primarily.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 01:00 PM

Good Stuff YG!

Open areas spell death for coyotes here as well, even though there is not much of it here.

Cover of any kind no matter how small means security to a coyote. Their life depends on it.

What you mentioned can be applied to any location with open areas where they are forced to travel.

In your case the low areas and strips are the main travel corridors. Any structure added to that feature is a neon sign in an otherwise bleak landscape.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 02:33 PM

Good stuff YG, very similar here with the plowing and mud. Coners points are magic, and grass is a big plus. It doesn't take much for mouse colonies.
It's not that the dirt holes aren't effective it's a time value added thing for me. Flat sets are faster to make than dirt holes! If I can save minutes per set then by the end of the day I've saved hours to set more locations. Thus time value added.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 02:36 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

I would have a few marking scent placement objects that would stand out along that roadway with other lured and baited sets. I am with golf ball on their urge to mark along most any travel way. Those types of sets are very effective if placed and developed well. You must be subtle with your scent amount used.

Yes sir give them something to pee on...

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 02:37 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

I would have a few marking scent placement objects that would stand out along that roadway with other lured and baited sets. I am with golf ball on their urge to mark along most any travel way. Those types of sets are very effective if placed and developed well. You must be subtle with your scent amount used.

Yes sir give them something to pee on...

It is the most common response for all canines...

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 02:49 PM

I agree. I catch far more in low secluded travel ways than high spots. The old timers here always preached high spots. We had mainly fox then and to many guys were looking at yotes with a fox trappers mentality. I was very guilty of this. Have the destroyed traps to prove it. Lol
Awwww wind direction. I hate that topic. Our wind direction changes so much it will drive you crazy. Wide open areas I use at least one primary set with eye appeal to combat bad wind direction. This is where big hole sets come in to play for me. A yote can see that new dirt from a long ways off when the wind is wrong. If he is a hard charger and gets caught in the eye appeal set that is great. If not he circles down wind and finds my more subtle sets. When on a new location I find here large adult males are almost always the first caught. Usually in a flat set especially if it has rained that night. Which it usually does. Lol.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 02:55 PM

About the best it gets on my line. Low travel way and a Y waterway. 24 yotes died here. 21 within 100 yards. A highway is within 200 yards. They can do whatever they want undirected here and pop out to cross the highway.
Curiosity may have killed the cat but elevation and safety zones kill the yotes here where everyone is trying to kill them 24/7.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/07/22 03:06 PM

I took my personal best numbers from one location on low grass drainages in open plowed locations. Especially if there's a bit of erosion in the mix. I look for high lows for the set itself. Those pics are worth a thousand words.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/08/22 03:07 AM

One of the things I have noticed in Tejas’ pictures is the game trails and two tracks full of coyote tracks. I saw the same thing in Kansas last January but it was two tracks and old cattle trails . That’s in my opinion our biggest disadvantage in farm country, when we find good sign it is typically spread out 6’ to 8’ wide in the mud. The farm lanes in my country are usually solid grass and like Rob said when you get an elevation change you will find sign on either side. I set on the north side as we have a lot of south west wind even in winter but like Rob said you can’t count on it. Having said that once my first set is in ( dirt hole ) I may only move 20’ down the lane and put in a pipe or another dirt hole or trash mound. Then I will come back to the south side just off the grass and put in a third set in between the first two sets. But like Rob said alway off the grass. I’ve had lanes with no elevation change the length of the field and then I set the grass. [Linked Image]

This coyote was the third one from the end of a farm lane just before a railroad crossing. The second coyote muddied up this spot pretty good and I could not hide the pipe any more without transplanting a new clump of sod. I had nearly given up on this spot when it snowed a couple inches and that seems to be just the ticket sometimes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/11/22 12:06 AM

This brings us to the DDH Set.

The double hole set was by far my top producer when compared to all the other dirt hole variations.

Other sets weren’t even close when it came to the catch numbers and foot traffic the double generated.

If I had to use one hole set this is what I would go with.

The 1½” punch holes are around four inches apart and ten to twelve inches deep.

The pan is centered eight inches out from the holes forming a triangle

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/11/22 01:51 AM

Nice looking sets Tejas. How many would you put in on a road like you pictured?

Posted By: Len Dunham

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/11/22 09:48 AM

Good looking sets coyotes are going to died.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/12/22 02:10 AM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Nice looking sets Tejas.
How many would you put in on a road like you pictured?

MC, it depends on several factors like coyote traffic, cross trails, and how much pressure has been put on the coyotes at that point and time.

When I road set for early season coyotes going from “A to B” I like to set doubles along the two track at specific locations. Sometimes I guard both sides of the road hedging my bet in case of a wind change, and other times I stick solely to the predominant upwind side. A well-used road might have ten to twelve sets in a mile stretch. Once the numbers have been whittled down, single sets are spread over a larger area to cast a wider net.

I've found that setting too heavy along a busy two track can spook or bump a lot of coyotes. That applies to both the visual and olfactory side of things.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/12/22 11:30 AM

Thanks, we think alike in some ways.
Good luck.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/13/22 04:00 PM

Some folks prefer dirt hole sets because they tend to generate more foot traffic than the average presentation.

Here are a few photos illustrating its effectiveness when you show a coyote what it really wants to get at.

There were no sets made at this location. If I were to set something like this I would stay well away from the hole to avoid a trap and coyote covered in an oil slick.

This is a three inch hole filled with fresh grease from frying up some chicken.

I didn’t use the colonel’s eleven secret herbs and spices, but I don’t think it really mattered to the coyotes.

I like to call this set The Grease Trap.

[Linked Image]

Fast food joints always do well at busy intersections.

[Linked Image]

If you are a fan of coyotes digging at sets you’ll get your money's worth with one.

[Linked Image]

The trenches were deep enough to hide a coyote from ground level.

[Linked Image]

The coyotes that did this paid their bill in full at several sets just a short distance away.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/13/22 04:36 PM

Nice! They will eat or try to eat grease of any sorts around here...Kentucky Fried or not.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/14/22 04:17 AM

Tejas I played with prebaiting one year and when I returned to place my trap in the set they were completely blown out. Just made the same set opposite of the dig. Got some action. Wasn’t the time saver I hoped it would be. Lol

[Linked Image]

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/14/22 01:29 PM

I use the grease in a pock hole a lot to create a hot spot they'll spend time at. Especially where I can't set the key locations, I don't have permission on. I mix bacon grease with used cooking oil with a dash of this and that...

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/14/22 01:39 PM

Tejas are you using the “ grease trap “ only as a draw ? Or was this just an experiment ?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/16/22 01:59 AM

It was a little of both G.

When it’s all said and done, grease can’t match the power of carne when it comes to holding coyotes.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/16/22 02:20 PM

How are you using the spiced beef ? Or should I ask how are you spicing the beef ?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/18/22 11:42 AM

The South Texas Barbacoa Set

Here is a set back from 2019 that I used to keep the birds from depleting a bait.

The post hole is 3 - 3½’ deep with the head dropped in and nose pointed up.

Any coyote that looks down the hole knows exactly what is staring back at them.

The cabeza looks within reach which is what helps keep them digging.

The coyote also knows this is a big "to-go” prize if he can get to it. That alone is a huge incentive to keep working the hole.

[Linked Image]

Wile E. and his kinfolk will camp out at the site if you set it up right. Gang flat sets on the perimeter do extremely well in this situation.

Like in many instances, the excavation crew worked the money pit solely with the wind at their tail.

This is after only one night of digging for buried treasure.

[Linked Image]

The more the coyotes dig, the more dirt fills in around the head.

That makes it almost impossible to pull out once they are able to get a bite on the nose and put it in reverse.

Being able to grab the nose and not get the happy meal must be a little more than most coyotes can bear.

[Linked Image]

Only after digging past the bridge of the nose will they finally have enough leverage to pull the skull out.

By that time, most of the participants will have already been given a free Polaris ride to parts unknown.

This photo was taken after several nights of hard trenching.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/18/22 02:02 PM

Looks good Tejas! Whatever it takes to continue to hammer the predators.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/18/22 03:13 PM

I like that . The most dominant of the bunch will do most of the digging and his wingmen will investigate your other offerings .

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/18/22 10:28 PM

What a great thread. There is not a lot of real coyote control information out there. Most info is focused on fur trapping. Control trappers modify the info and try to apply it to control work.

The rubber hits the road when a rancher is having kills every night and I’m out there trying to get the ONE (or more) doing the killing. It is even worse when the killer has been educated by previous trappers.

I start to get a little superstitious after a while. I never really know what makes a difference and what doesn’t. But seeing the situations and sets for control work in this thread has been great. Keep it up! Thank you.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/19/22 03:55 PM

Thanks for taking the time to chime in again CT.

As you know, the insight shared by a host of good coyote trappers on this thread can go a long way if you keep an open mind.

There are little gems to be found that will work for all of us if we just take the time to look a little closer and give them a fair shake in the field.

Many are way too quick to dismiss new thoughts or ideas solely because what they have been doing has worked well for them in the past.

If you continue to play the same tune over and over again you'll never get any better.

As with any one trick pony, it won’t take long for the audience to get bored.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/21/22 03:20 AM

As you can see in the above photos, the post hole is really more of a draw than an actual set.

I rarely ever bed a trap at the location. If I do it is after the bait has been taken.

Trap placement depends on how the coyotes have worked the bait up to that point.

Keep in mind that after the hole has been looted there are a lot of interesting smells left by multiple coyotes at the dig.

The excavation site is a draw in itself, but the scent left behind by the previous visitors’ turns up the volume up to ten.

This series of photos shows how I set up a hole that has been trenched out in one direction.

[Linked Image]

The big mound on the right was from digging the hole. The coyotes never stepped on this area.

You might keep that in mind and use it to your advantage.

[Linked Image]

This photo shows the steep angle of the trap that mirrors the grade of the trench.

[Linked Image]

To give you some scale of the site, the tarp is 5x5.

[Linked Image]

Finished Set:

Chunk bait was thrown down the hole and a little dirt kicked in to cover it.

[Linked Image]

A natural funnel made by several fence corners at this location made it an ideal spot for a drive - thru.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Willy Firewood

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/22/22 03:00 AM

How long did it take for them to make that excavation?
That would be worth doing just to put a few cameras around to watch the frustration caused antics.
Of course around here the soil is not dry, pre-sifted, or even red!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/22/22 11:28 AM

Looks similar to a badger catch circle...even a badger den set.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/22/22 07:16 PM

Originally Posted by Willy Firewood

How long did it take for them to make that excavation?
That would be worth doing just to put a few cameras around to watch the frustration caused antics.

The Benny Hill theme song would make for an appropriate soundtrack I bet.

It could be just a matter of a few days in early season on a good location to make the site look like a bomb went off.

If you really wanted to have some fun you could anchor the skull at the bottom of the hole.

That will hold coyotes there quite a bit longer, but they will quit the site once they realize they can’t take off with the prize.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/23/22 12:49 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Looks similar to a badger catch circle...even a badger den set.

That’s a good observation MC.

To me it looks a lot like a badger excavation when digging a pack rat midden.

The rat is usually smart enough to avoid being lunch for the most part.

[Linked Image]

I don’t usually set digs like this because I rarely see coyote sign after the fact.

Notice that there are no coyote tracks on the fresh mound of dirt

[Linked Image]

What I find interesting is the rat will apply his own brand of Homeland Security after an invasion.

He places tasasjillo cactus over the entrance to deter any unwanted guests.

This pencil cactus has long needles that are equipped with barbs so once the go in they don’t want to pull out.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/23/22 03:13 PM

I'm with Tejas on setting badger digs. A big waste of time in opinion. You'll see guys advocate setting them but they aren't generally on a good travel corridor. Sure they check them out once in a while but they aren't a big producer either. Set up where the coyotes are traveling.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/23/22 03:30 PM

Every set has its time and place. I find the more sets I make, the more “luck” I have.

Im mostly a flat set guy where I live, but if I went to another region of the country I’d change my sets to fit the situation/geography/pressure etc.

That goes for baits, lures, sets, traps and snares. I’d try my sets from home, but you can bet I’d be talking with trappers from the area for methods that work there. That is part of the fun of trapping.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/25/22 01:51 PM

Natural holes like woodchuck dens have great appeal to predators, badger holes not so much. Every prey animal uses woodchuck dens. They are the first place I look on new ground to verify predator presence. Flat sets on the apron or bait the hole itself has been a killer for many years.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/25/22 09:35 PM

Good stuff. thanks for sharing

Mac

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/27/22 01:56 PM

Here are a few examples that might give folks a new look or idea for their dirt hole sets.

Many trappers like to mimic a more natural look.

These are all active holes made by ground squirrels.

Notice that the angle of the hole is much more parallel to the ground than any traditional hole set.

[Linked Image]

All of the entrances have a sharp edge like a punch or auger hole.

[Linked Image]

Take note that there is no fresh or piled up dirt at any of the sites.

[Linked Image]

An embankment is not needed even on the slightest angle.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/29/22 02:04 AM

This old girl from the 2022 season had a good run compared to most. She had seen many a sunrise in her day.

Even with the relentless pressure of trapping, aerial gunning, calling, snaring, and random “Hail Mary” shots,
she still managed to put tracks behind her on those same senderos year after year.

[Linked Image]

Coyotes don’t get this old by making bad decisions and throwing caution to the wind.

She lived longer than most pressured coyotes because she reacted a little different than the others.

Her longevity was due in part to the education she received along the way.

Coyotes are a lot like wolfers in many aspects. Some apply their schooling a bit more than others.

[Linked Image]

That education comes in the form of repetition.

A trapper that continually repeats looks and smells along with dismissing scent control will catch fewer educated coyotes.

They will inadvertently continue tutoring the upperclassmen while at the same time introduce the first-year students to the game.

This trapping mindset creates and breeds a lot of problem coyotes. Over time this leads to multiple generations that have masters in avoidance and mayhem.

Many of her pups have probably gone on to join that elite group.

[Linked Image]

In the end, reducing your scent and avoiding repetition kills more problem coyotes and educates less of them.

[Linked Image]

A shout out goes to my good friend in MT.
Hey old timer, that male coyote gland reeled her in !

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/29/22 02:09 AM

Here is a question for the Coyote Crew.

Any amount of trapping pressure creates education to some extent. That fact is unavoidable.

Aside from trying to catch every coyote that works your sets, what measures do you take if any to prevent further education and stay one step ahead of Wile E.?

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/29/22 02:42 AM

Nice,she had seen a few sunrises,by the looks of her teeth,guessing her at 10 to 12 years old did you cross section her canine to age her?Bet you didn't catch her in a dirt hole set,unless she was on the verge of straving to death,Good job killing her.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/29/22 11:35 AM

Those older females in most species keep their bloodline going for many many years. Collectively, those older, wiser gals all contribute to re seeding and ensure their species survival for the future generations.

Their ability to survive, adapt and learn is what makes them such a challenge at times. Even with all the pressure they receive in some areas they find a way to move forward and thrive. Their diversity and continued expansion into new areas is big part of their life's' cycle to continue their species as well.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/29/22 06:21 PM

Question for you Tejas, how do you reduce human scent in that South Texas heat. I would say it’s probably comparable to South Georgia. I can’t step out of the truck before I start dripping sweat.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/29/22 10:48 PM

Originally Posted by rick olson

Nice, she had seen a few sunrises,by the looks of her teeth,guessing her at 10 to 12 years old.

Did you cross section her canine to age her?

I bet you didn't catch her in a dirt hole set,unless she was on the verge of starving to death.

Good job killing her.

Rick, South Texas would freeze over before that old gal would hit a hole set.

I’ve never had a set of choppers aged, but I need to collect some of the older specimens and see if I can get that done.

She was in poor shape partly due to her age, but mainly from what looked to be a bullet graze across her lower sternum.

She was a tall-stationed coyote, which is not something I see in females too often. With her big frame I bet she would have tipped the scales just shy of thirty pounds in her prime. I have no doubt she kicked some tail in her day. I can go back and look, but I don’t believe I have ever had a female make it past the thirty pound mark.

The old lady had plenty of game left right up until the end. There were two sets about eight yards apart, and the first had caught a male coyote on female gland lure the prior day. The second set had not made a catch up to that point. She entered the hot remake and dug a 360 around the attractant until the trap was located. She then went to the second set expecting to do the exact same thing. What she didn’t expect was the trap placement on the second set was not remotely close to where the first one was.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/30/22 01:17 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Question for you Tejas,
How do you reduce human scent in that South Texas heat?
I would say it’s probably comparable to South Georgia.
I can’t step out of the truck before I start dripping sweat.

WB, the arid desert environment I’m in will typically start out at high humidity in the early morning, but will quickly drop after about 10 am.

The temperature for the second and third week of May had daily max temps from 100-106°.

We don't sustain the kind of humidity levels you folks probably do during the daylight hours.

The tarp is my first line of defense.

I use clean gloves and a tarp on every new set

Boots that have been in the catch circle are on a tarp at new sets. The same goes for the kneeling pad.

On remakes I use dirty gloves & a kneeling pad only.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 05/30/22 03:58 PM

I'll just throw something out for discussion. Who's to say that those boots that were in a previous catch circle with all the coyote smells on them won't be an attractant or at least lower the coyotes caution at a set. I say this because I read an article by Major Boddicker a few years back. He wrote about wearing the same coveralls he formulated lures in on the trapline. He had great success and even when around domestic dogs in those clothes they would all approach him and try to ride his leg.

I haven't tried a tarp but have used a kneeling pad in the past. Went to knee pads which I still wear if setting all day, but got tired of putting them on for a set or two. So I set quite a few new sets just kneeling down without anything, with previous catch circle smells on my boots and haven't noticed a difference here.

I do something that may seem a little odd though. Not sure if it works to my advantage or I just think it does. Probably be a good study with a camera. I walk past the set I made both directions about 20 yards and kick a smooth spot in the dirt like my active set. I don't just want my smell and disturbance going directly from vehicle to set and right back into vehicle.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/02/22 01:07 AM

You make some good points Silky.

I think the smell of another coyote could be just what the Dr. ordered in a lot of cases. That might be just enough to get him to let his guard down a bit. Not just that, but I believe it would definitely get them to mill around the set area and follow the scent to see what’s going on. I was discussing a similar topic of coyote scent on location with a good friend and trapper just a few days back.

Here is a little something to ponder. I’ve noticed that my male Catahoula is much more interested in fresh coyote smells than he is with any one lure. That is probably in part because no two coyotes smell exactly the same.

I guess I should have phrased my previous post a little differently. My main concern is not so much the rubber boots, but the porous foam kneeling pad that was just pulled out of a fresh catch circle that stinks to high heaven. That would concentrate a lot of stank right in front of a new set if I didn’t use a tarp. I can certainly see a coyote digging right at the foot of my set to investigate the smell.

I don’t feel that waking around the location hurts a thing. Where the set is to be made I am much more careful. The tarp’s primary purpose for me is to keep as much of my smell off the dirt as I possibly can at the set site.

I like your last idea a lot. I bet you could play some good tricks on coyotes with a little thought behind it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/05/22 11:42 PM

I thought folks might find it interesting to see what kind of patterns coyotes tend to have before pressure is applied.

We will fast forward to November when activity is just beginning to ramp up and temps are starting to fall.

Aside from restricted movement due to pup rearing and high temps, the summertime routine is about the same.

The essentials never change no matter what month it is.

Sometimes you just have to look a little beyond the road being driven on.

As you would expect, young of the year are usually the first up and at it. (4:23 pm.)

This coyote like most comes directly off the bed and goes straight to the water cooler.

[Linked Image]

A lot of coyotes pass back by to drink before heading home to their bedding area with a full belly. (7:37 am.)

There’s little doubt the younger coyote in the front is shadowing its parent. There’s a good chance this is a mother daughter team.

[Linked Image]

This is the normal time pattern. Two adults with a juvenile in tow roll in about an hour or so after dark to top off the tank. (7:34 pm.)

[Linked Image]

Things start to pick up a little as temps continue to fall.

These five stop by right at daybreak before they retire for the day. (6:39 am.)

Notice that the moon is almost full.

[Linked Image]

A pup that doesn’t know better soon will.(8:34 am.)

[Linked Image]

You know there is no pressure when you see adults out this late in the morning.(10:00 am.)

This is exactly why I don’t run the line right at sunrise. I believe a lot of coyotes are picked up in the first hour of light.

[Linked Image]

The ground and aerial cleanup crew talking shop.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/06/22 09:13 AM

TEJAS
Thanks again for starting this thread and thanks for sharing.

Mac

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/11/22 06:05 PM

You’re Welcome Mac.

Every day on the line presents a learning opportunity if we just look a little closer.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/11/22 10:24 PM

It’s a given that most road trappers will set for predominate wind direction on the line they're taking.

To hedge in case of a wind shift they will usually set both sides of the trail or road.

If your time is limited on a certain property, putting in more sets certainly fits the bill.

If you're not on a time schedule, have whittled down the population, or have low numbers to start with, doubling the number of traps you have out might not be what you want in that particular situation.

Gang setting certainly has its time and place, but there are certain circumstances where fewer traps spread over a wider area will catch more and spook less than a line with more traps concentrated in a smaller area.

This scruffy male had a nasty disposition to go along with his unkempt appearance.

He was picked up on a very subtle flat set that was downwind of his travel path.

[Linked Image]

Here is a little trick that might help you pick up a few more coyotes.

You could call it the "Hedge Your Bet Set".

When a single set is made for the current wind and later a shift is expected, I want to try and prevent a possible drive-by where the coyote never gets a whiff of the goodies.

All that's really needed is to catch the coyote’s nose getting him to break stride and start milling around the set area. The trick is to get him to hang around just long enough to find the landmine.

The photo shows current wind direction along with an “X” for trap location. The three arrows in the road show options where you might place a very small amount of attractant to catch the coyote’s attention in the event of a 180°+ - wind change. I will re-emphasize to put just enough attractant to make him check-up, not hold him there . Secondary attractant placement will vary depending on wind, situation, and available features. Make adjustments to the original set if needed.

[Linked Image]

Variations of this technique reeled in several adult coyotes this year that passed upwind of the set.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/11/22 11:36 PM

I'm a little different. I always set the predominate wind for the the certain time of the year. A waste of my time setting a spot in case of a wind change. In a pinched down area like that with trees/bushes on both sides, one would think the wind would be a limiting factor unless you're dealing with strong winds.

From my perspective, in that scenario if you're worried about wind shift, a set in the center with urine sprinkled from center of track towards set on both sides would be a killer. I trap in the wide open prairie. If I want a little more attention to my set, in case of wind change, I just give a sprinkle of urine from center of two track towards set. That's all it takes.

Not saying what you do doesn't work. It's basically the same concept of getting them to stall for a moment. Just throwing out observations and what has been successful for me.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/12/22 11:41 AM

Silky, I always set for predominate wind as well, but we get some major temperature swings in the winter. Temps in the high eighties are not uncommon. The drastic fluctuation seems to change wind direction quite a bit. No matter what time of the year we always seem to revert back to the South.

The hedge is strictly a temporary fix for a major wind shift until it changes back.

The road set that caught the coyote above had the wind in its favor when it was made, but it had briefly changed. In order to keep that set alive I put out an olfactory stop sign on the now upwind side of the two-track.

Most of the time I put the attractant on something I can move so it can be pulled when the wind switches back.

The winds can get going pretty good at times. Depending on a road’s orientation, several inches of sand can drift over a line of sets overnight. That makes or a long morning.

Around here, center of the road sets don’t seem to hit near as well as the sides for some reason.

Maybe it’s because lingering in the middle of the road will get a coyote killed quick in the brush country.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/12/22 03:14 PM

I'm with you on the center, Tejas. I just seen a few other south trappers setting the center a lot and thought it might be a productive one in those areas. I rarely set center anymore. Never seemed to have as many connections around here by setting the center. I have the best success setting the edge of the predominate wind.

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/12/22 06:58 PM

I have seen others set the middle of a two track road. Maybe I haven’t stuck with us enough, but I haven’t seemed to have luck doing it.

I’ve had better luck setting just off the road to the upwind side. But then I usually set another set on the other side of the road also. I hope to catch the circling coyote. Or possibly the second coyote who circles the caught one.

I like the ideas Tejas made of simply adding some scent on the other side of the road. I’ll try that also.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/12/22 09:07 PM

We don’t have a large population of coyotes on any of the properties I trap, but center of the two tracks work well for me. It seems to put the scent right there where they’re walking regardless of wind direction. Granted they may have to sit for a week or four before something walks by, but they usually catch when they do.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/12/22 11:35 PM

Something that has worked for me when the wind gets contrary on these scenarios is a shot of used cooking oil and smoker drippings sprinkled across the road from the trap will usually get them slowed down enough to work the set.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/12/22 11:47 PM

I have used trailing scents for over 30 years for locations such as described and in wide open harvested bean and corn fields. It doesn't take much scent if you have a good blend of odors. I make a set and hop on my ATV and leave small squirts along the way to a determined stopping point and put in another set.

Gets their attention and creates more curiosity interest that may not have been there alone with a couple of sets. I have run some scent lines quite a distance and placed sets on each end of the scent trail.

I usually put some LDC on a higher object like a bent corn stalk or take in a long weed stem like golden rod and scent the top with LDC. I have caught lots of predators at these set ups over the years. They are effective set ups and I always anticipate checking them.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/13/22 03:54 AM

^^^^^^^
I've used your LDC the same way over the years and have had success doing that as well, Bob.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/13/22 01:41 PM

I’ve got a question for the guys that use a tarp or drop cloth, (mine is a light cotton canvas) how do you go about cleaning it ? Given enough time even if your careful, they are going to get dirty.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/13/22 01:50 PM

I just throw mine in a creek for a few days, fish it back out, hang it out, snap it a few times and re use.
I have a few of them. The drop cloths are great in muddy weather but ain’t worth a darn when dealing with skunks. I carry a back up just in case.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/13/22 10:46 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

I’ve got a question for the guys that use a tarp or drop cloth, (mine is a light cotton canvas) how do you go about cleaning it ?

Golf, I just run my tarp through the washer with no detergent added.

Since the canvas is made of cotton, I hang it out to dry instead of throwing it in the dryer.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/14/22 12:10 PM

Here is a good example of hedging a set.

A spur trail intersects this road at a 45° angle. That is why the set is so far off the two-track..

It is a good location wind-wise for the trail but not the road.

A very small shot of urine was placed in the center of the road to hopefully stop any coyote passing by.

You can see where the adult coyote immediately checked up and milled around far enough off the road to get in trouble.

The lone arrow shows where secondary scent was applied. The line shows where the coyote stopped dead in his tracks and made a detour.

[Linked Image]

Having the luxury of sand to study sign can really help in understanding exactly what went on at the crime scene.

It is the best learning tool I have along with my Catahoula.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/20/22 02:47 AM

This coyote was the third adult female caught at this location and the fifth overall.

The majority of these catches were made on the windward side of the attractant even though the set was made on the upwind side of the road.

I’ve learned that if I’m not mixing in a few upwind trap sets on my line, I’m probably missing some of the tougher coyotes in the area.

[Linked Image]

Flat Set – MB Coyote Urine – Winter Wolf

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 06/25/22 09:58 PM

In many cases, simply presenting a new look or smell is all that it takes to reel a coyote in.

Other times it’s better to show them something they would expect to see or smell at that time and place..

On this occasion, what was most familiar was also the most effective.

[Linked Image]

Adult Male – Flat Set – Female Coyote Gland – G-Dog Urine

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/08/22 05:37 PM

Here is another example of a backdoor approach coyote.

This particular set had the attractant at the edge of the road. The trap was guarding the backside closer to the brush on the left.

This adult female was taken in the same manner and location as an adult male three days before.

Wind direction on both catch nights was blowing across the road from left to right.

The catch photo may provide a few clues as to why some coyotes might give up the wind and 180 a set.

It's also is a good example of why I avoid setting the center of the road.

[Linked Image]

Some of the younger females bring a solid game.

There's a good chance she would have defeated most traditional downwind sets.

[Linked Image]

Adult Female – Flat Set – Jameson’s Prairie King – G-Dog Urine

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/08/22 10:10 PM

Really enjoy your post Tejas ! So that I’m understanding this right the coyote came in from down wind but circled 180 and committed from the upwind side? Do you see that a lot? If the set was in the middle of the 2 track how would that have changed things? By “guarding the backside” I’m guessing the trap was on the upwind side of the bait in front of the backing?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/09/22 11:25 PM

Thanks Shark!

Maybe you'll be able to put a few of these ideas to work on your line this season.

On the catch photo, it is uncertain if the initial approach was downwind on the road or just upwind on the faint trail to the left that parallels the road.

Yes, the trap was on the upwind side of the attractant.

Yes, this happens quite often. Check out a few posts above this one, and many others throughout the thread.

No, I don’t think this is a coincidence or a temporary wind switch with as much as it happens.

I believe it is a behavior. Whether it is instinctual or learned is anyone’s guess.

You might look back on the previous page and review what several other trappers said about setting different sections of a road.

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/10/22 04:29 AM

Thanks for the reply Tejas! One thing that I wish I had was more sandy roads. Seeing the tracks like you can really would teach a trapper how coyotes work a set. I get to see some but in my area most of the ground is covered either with pine straw or heavy grass. Hope to one day get to trap down south. I deer hunt down that way often but have never trapped that terrain.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/15/22 01:32 PM

Folks that have a tough time driving and pulling earth anchors might want to give this a try if they haven’t already. This doesn’t apply to the trappers dealing with frozen ground.

If you trap in an area with hard ground skip the heavy hammer and go with a ship auger bit to predrill a pilot hole for your anchors. This will save you a lot of wear and tear on your shoulder as well as time on the line.

A ¾“ bit with a total length of 18” is pictured here. The auger length is 12”. Harbor Freight carries a three pack of 18” bits of different sizes for around twenty bucks.

[Linked Image]

Drilling and driving to a depth of 12” will give you a set depth of around 10” when anchor is engaged.

There's no need to strain your back pulling anchors when you can easily auger them out.

[Linked Image]

Stay as close to the chain as possible and you should have the trap pulled in about fifteen or twenty seconds. The auger pictured is a 1.5”.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/15/22 02:58 PM

Yep, exactly how I pull. I can pull a heck of a lot faster than I can put in, lol.

Posted By: the Blak Spot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/15/22 03:15 PM

You put ice under those traps to keep them from melting?…

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/16/22 01:21 PM

Originally Posted by the Blak Spot

You put ice under those traps to keep them from melting?…

I usually go with one of those little drink umbrellas you would get if you ended up at the beach.

That set visual goes well with a matching sign that says “Free Deer & Beer”

Those old retirement coyotes just can’t resist the old D&B set.

Here is next week’s forecast Spot.

[Linked Image]

It doesn’t get hot until August....

Posted By: Scott__aR

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/16/22 08:46 PM

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/24/22 08:30 PM

Here's a little DIY for folks that might want to try a good alternative to pan covers or poly.

This is made to work with the MB 550, but you could make adjustments to fit whatever trap you use.

Get yourself a roll of ½” foam padding. I picked this up at Wal-Mart for around fifteen bucks.

[Linked Image]

Get a small tomato paste can to use as a cookie cutter.

[Linked Image]

Sharpen the edge of the can so it will make clean cuts.

[Linked Image]

Start at one corner of the foam sheet and work your way across.

Keeping the can centered in one spot, push down hard turning slightly left to right to make a clean cut.

[Linked Image]

The pad will be just a little smaller than the pan itself because the pit pan is cut off on one side.

The ½” thickness is perfect for the MB 550 and does not alter the pan tension.

The ¾” foam used with commercial pads will raise the tension around a pound.

[Linked Image]

A full sheet will turn out around three-hundred rounds

The thickness and size of the foam cutout is tailored to fit the MB 550.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/24/22 08:34 PM

For mild Southern climates, using a foam pad has a lot of advantages. They are quick and easy to load without need for adjustment before and after bedding. They don’t lend themselves to being shredded, and they’re rarely chewed on unlike other materials. Pack rats don’t even bother them. For the most part they are left alone and can be used over and over again and again at the same set. A pad can hold a bit of moisture, but that does not affect pan tension. That is of no real consequence when you don’t have to deal with freeze/thaw conditions.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/24/22 10:50 PM

That's a great idea TEJAS! Unfortunately with our freeze/thaw temps up here underalls don't seem to work as well for me. Cool idea though!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/24/22 11:12 PM

Good stuff Tejas...thank you.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/24/22 11:21 PM

Good explanation and photo series James. I tried under all pads many moons ago. However with our winters of soaking rain.cold wind, snow, sleet and freezing rains you don't want anything under your pans.

I want to keep that under the pan area void except for some dry sifted peat moss that may filter under the pan at times. Pan covers are a better fit for me.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/25/22 11:41 AM

Thanks Scout, MChewk, & Mr. Jameson.

I used poly at first, but it's time consuming when you have to open a container, pull the right amount from the bag, and then form it to fit.

And of course it’s shredded when a catch is made and has to be picked up.

I’ve found this method to be much more efficient in every aspect.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/25/22 11:45 AM

Great idea James, I don't trap as much in a month as you do in a day but I have been back by places months later and had to pick up a wad of poly that had been buried.

Posted By: backhometrapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/25/22 03:00 PM

TEJAS, does the foam have any odor. thank you

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/25/22 03:25 PM

Great info Tejas ! I’m heading up to Walmart now.

Posted By: la4wd54

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/25/22 08:10 PM

Another thought for our southern boys that don't have to deal with a lot of freeze thaw conditions, and I've been using them for several years now with no issues. Most times reusable also.
[Linked Image]

Can get it at wally world, $2.47 here. Cut 3/8" slices with an old electric knife. Fits perfectly under a 550 pan.

[Linked Image]

Can get probably 85 or so for 2.50. I keep em in clean plastic jugs with some mesquite or cedar leaves in it

[Linked Image]

Hmm don't know why they're rotated,

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/25/22 11:57 PM

Originally Posted by backhometrapper

TEJAS, does the foam have any odor. thank you

BHT, if there is the coyotes don’t seem to have picked up on it.

Being porous I would think that the foam will pick up whatever smell is around it pretty quick.

Once it goes in the dirt or sand I bet it absorbs that smell.

The first couple of batches I made i threw in a few handfuls of dirt in the bag with them for good measure. After using for this long with no issues I don’t think that is necessary. I do wear gloves when making them as it is usually hot as Hades around here during the summer months.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/26/22 10:59 AM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

I have been back by places months later and had to pick up a wad of poly that had been buried.

BT, here they usually pull the poly apart in a thousand little pieces.

The last thing I want to do at a fresh catch circle is walk all over it picking up debris after every catch.

Most of the other materials used in this manner whether over or under the pan lend themselves to being shredded.

I try to keep in mind that any of this material left at or near the site takes focus away from the set from a visual and olfactory standpoint.

That chewed up debris can and will cause some avoidance as well as detract from the focal point of the set.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/27/22 12:50 AM

Does any of the T-Man Crew trapping cold and/or wet climates use fiberglass under the pan?

I would like to hear the pros and cons from folks that have given fiberglass a try.

I’ve heard it works extremely well.

Posted By: Turd Furgeson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/27/22 01:29 AM

I use fiberglass pipe wrap insulation under my sterlings in SD with either dry local dirt or coal shale. It doesn’t seem to freeze and I haven’t experienced any rodent issues/digging. I started using it after it was recommended by Glen Sr. himself. Figured if it worked for him it must be decent. I prefer screen on my Monty’s, Montana’s, and alphas.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/27/22 12:17 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Does any of the T-Man Crew trapping cold and/or wet climates use fiberglass under the pan?

I would like to hear the pros and cons from folks that have given fiberglass a try.

I’ve heard it works extremely well.

It works okay until it gets really cold then like polly it doesn't. But as long as you don't have any sticking out from under the pan it works okay. Most use too much polly, it only takes a pinch.
Iv'e gone to nothing under the pan, I just file my notches short... But be careful 1/16th is about right. Works like a trigger on a fine rifle...

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/27/22 12:47 PM

As stated by Trappergus , Short notched traps done right are one of the key components of ensuring a trap will fire when pressured upon. The more pan travel you have the more likely it is your trap may not fire when needed. Short throw dog and pan notches are just good insurance.

However I have seen where some guys can't work with traps like that due to their bull in a china shop trap handling system.

They just don't have the Midas touch and are just too rough when they need to be more aware. I have a friend like that. One year in Kansas he said some bad words almost daily. Since he was using all my equipment he wasn't familiar with a well tuned trap. LOL

That is something each individual has to work out themselves. You will have to see if it is a good fit for your way of bedding and handling that kind of tuned trap.

Do a decent job with your anti freeze system and you won't have many misses due to frozen down traps. My method of granulated salt in the bottom bed area and bed sides, a generous layered bed with dry sifted peat to bed in, some waxed dirt top cover to finish off does a good job overall in the worst conditions that I have trapped in.

Maybe dust or sift over the finished set with some local ground duff to blend if I feel the need.

I have used waxed paper, coffee filters and some screen. It all works once you get your system down. The waxed paper and filters tend to sag down in between the jaws after some rain in a day or two. I don't feel that is a real problem visually as a deterent, just something I don't like to see on my patterns.

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/27/22 05:45 PM

I also use fiberglass pipe insulation its already sized just cut it for length, and as I have shared before--- put the whole trap in a walmart sack, excess folded under trap AND waxed dirt as needed------ this not a heavy snow setup, but here in western KS we have lots of wind, freezing and thawing (not now!!!!) and this system works well in my conditions.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 12:04 PM

Thanks for the responses fellas!

I guess I am trying to find a better way to combat wet conditions and the drying effect more than freezing in.

When you mix rain with the sand I have to work with it will put most of the line out of commission.

The problem arises when the dirt begins to dry. It solidifies like concrete around the trap. When this happens it’s a TKO on a MB 550.

A day or more is lost waiting for the soil to dry out just enough to re-bed the entire line. Of course those rain days are major movement times for all coyotes.

It is tough to look at a string of sets that should have coyotes in them, but all you see are patterns full of tracks.

Here are a couple of photos from earlier in the thread to illustrate what happens after a rain/dry event.

[Linked Image]

There is a pad under the pan.

[Linked Image]

I'm looking for a system that will keep my traps functioning through any rain/dry event. In this soil I don’t know if that is even possible.

If you fellas have any ideas I am all ears on this problem. I know there are a lot of good trappers out there that are forced to deal with bad weather almost every day on the line.

Any suggestions or possible solutions to this issue would be greatly appreciated. I need to find a fix for this dilemma. It’s costing me coyotes.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 01:09 PM

Looks like you might need a over the Pan cover and a under the pan filler.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 01:58 PM

Looks like you are fighting something similar to our freeze/thaw cycle. i think a pan cover would do you better, helping to keep dirt frome directly getting in the springs and stuff. Not sure how your traps are set up, but fighting the freeze/thaw and snow trapping I want a powerful trap to come up through the crust better, if your traps aren't four coiled, I would try four coiling them. Frankly what I think would work best, but is a pain, is to import dirt. Pack a bucket of dry, non crusting dirt with you to bed the trap in, and just sift a thin layer of natural dirt over the top for blending. It's what I do up here with waxed dirt, same idea except yours wouldn't have to be waxed to prevent freezing. Steeltraps has a thread currently where he is hauling play sand he bought at the store with him to combat wet clay. I suspect that sand would work for you also.

Posted By: Albeja Salvaje

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 02:00 PM

I'm over in George west and would love to have that problem with my traps! It's dry as a popcorn fart here. Wouldn't complain at all to have to reset my line! LOL By the way great thread I have been following for a while and have picked up some great tips. While I'm not dealing with the red dirt like you I have more sand or loam. I started and am still experimenting with the black screen it's not wire it's more like plastic it's very nimble. I cut a piece that covers from jaw to jaw. I get it at Lowes. Seems to leave entire area under it free of debris. But it won't friggin rain for me to see how well it will work!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 02:48 PM

Thanks Albeja!

With it this dry, August is going to be a tough month to get through without some help from Mother Nature.

You’ll never hear me whine about rain and what it does for the antlers, just what it does to my traps.

It is super dry on us as well. We have not had any rain for a long time just like you folks.

I hope that changes soon for all the ranchers down South Texas way.

God willing, we will see early spring and summer rains in 2023 to help those older bucks realize their true potential.

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 02:55 PM

Soil hardening is why I tend to not pack inside the jaws. I pack the outside in to firm up against the jaws and maybe push up some against the inside of the jaw but the center around the pan is left just sifted or lightly packed at most. Settling is an issue with that though.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 03:16 PM

I have mixed Vermiculite or Perlite with dirt for bedding the trap level then brush/dust over with the natural cover. I just use that mix for inside and outside the jaws. That prevents the sandy or gumbo from clumping hard like a pancake. It allows a better break up of the cover. I carried a small bucket to mix the local dirt/clay/sand at the site. I used it surgically for the trap bed area only. Didn't seem to have an odor issue or no more diggers then usual due to the foreign material..

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/28/22 11:48 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Looks like you might need a over the Pan cover and a under the pan filler.

Covers just get jacked with way too much here MC. They paw and swipe at sets a good bit in part because the sand is so easy to move.

I was hoping there might be a man-made material that the coyotes wouldn’t tear into a thousand little pieces that could be used to fill in the void and keep the trap functioning no matter what.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/29/22 01:40 AM

One of the things I like about Zaggers bedding method is the void under the trap, I feel like it helps burry the foot a little deeper when a coyote commits to the set. Mark chops a square hole , I use mb 550’s and 650’s so I use a spade to dig a funnel shaped hole so the trap basically wedges into the hole. If I’m setting in sod I don’t do anything much different than Mark does. When setting in dirt “ which is most of the time” I dig a funnel shaped hole , shave away enough dirt for the spring levers to be just below the surface of the ground and then fill the whole hole with peat. I will pack that stuff as tight as I can get it making sure to get plenty of it under the pan as I don’t use pan covers in the dirt anymore. Once I’m satisfied that the jaws are packed as best they can be I top coat with about a 1/4” of local dirt or waxed dirt depending on the time of year. This is the part that I think helps a lot with the soft area around the pan , I finish blending with any local duff or chaff I can find. Around here that’s not hard to come by , you will find bean chaff or dried grass from mowing in just about every field edge. I used to carry a bucket full just in case, now I carry a leaf rake and just pull some to the set if their is none close to the set. I use the rake for blending in a big area if need be with no ill affect.
Hope this does you some good , nothing worse than remaking sets that didn’t have a coyote in them .

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/29/22 11:37 AM

Originally Posted by bearcat2

Looks like you are fighting something similar to our freeze/thaw cycle. i think a pan cover would do you better, helping to keep dirt frome directly getting in the springs and stuff. Not sure how your traps are set up, but fighting the freeze/thaw and snow trapping I want a powerful trap to come up through the crust better, if your traps aren't four coiled, I would try four coiling them. Frankly what I think would work best, but is a pain, is to import dirt. Pack a bucket of dry, non crusting dirt with you to bed the trap in, and just sift a thin layer of natural dirt over the top for blending.

Bear, I've found it’s not a matter of the trap coming through the crust, its the pressure it takes to trip the pan once the soil hardens.

Even setting the trap off when pulled out of the ground like in the photo above takes tremendous pressure to make the trap trip.

I believe there is a much better solution to this problem than carrying around fifty pound sacks of sand on the line.

Like you said, "its a pain". I'm going do my best to see if I can avoid that particular one.

Since using a pan cover for me is out, that leaves finding something suitable to fill the void under and around the pan.

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/29/22 12:30 PM

Tejas, have you tried peat moss? I use polyfill under the pan and then peat moss between the jaws.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/29/22 04:18 PM

Originally Posted by sportsman94

Tejas, have you tried peat moss? I use polyfill under the pan and then peat moss between the jaws.

I have not S94.

With the distinct smell and color difference I can see where there might be a good chance of getting lots of digging.

It might work out fine just fine, I don’t know for certain.

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/29/22 05:32 PM

Meant to add that I go back over with a thin layer of native soil. That helps with the color difference. No comment on the smell. It seems to just help with having the brick of soil you have over yours. May or may not work though. I have to use it for the red clay in our area. Our sandy soils don’t seem to lock up like yours. Will be interested to hear what you come up with that works. Thanks for this thread!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/30/22 01:06 AM

You're Welcome 94.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/30/22 06:18 AM

Yes, thanks. For the thread. Also I tend to run a little lighter pan tension than many on here recommend. Because once you get some frost and ice in your trap that increases the pan tension, and if you already have it heavy you are liable to have animals walking over your traps without setting them off. Not sure if a lighter pan tension would help you out with your soil but it might be worth a try. You'll likely have to deal with a few more smaller nontargets though. We don't have much for coons here and most of the time when I'm trapping the skunks are hibernating, so the nontargets I have to deal with are usually cats, and the big cats are going to set off any trap that would go off with a canine stepping on it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/30/22 11:47 AM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

I have mixed Vermiculite or Perlite with dirt for bedding the trap level then brush/dust over with the natural cover. I just use that mix for inside and outside the jaws. That prevents the sandy or gumbo from clumping hard like a pancake. It allows a better break up of the cover. I carried a small bucket to mix the local dirt/clay/sand at the site. I used it surgically for the trap bed area only. Didn't seem to have an odor issue or no more diggers then usual due to the foreign material..

Ive heard folks mention Vermiculite/Perlite before.

Isn't it a real light material like bits of Styrofoam?

This sounds like in might be a good option if it doesn't float up out of the bed with a big rain.

How does it do in a downpour Mr. Jameson?

Has anyone else given this material a try?

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/30/22 01:19 PM

I only use it mixed with the bedding .media. I don't use it for cover material. The vermiculitel holds nicely in the soil when it gets wet. We get some steady rain, mixed with sleet and snow.

Then it may all melt in a few days type of weather locally. I would try some in a few sets and see how it performs. I use it to keep the soil from compacting hard with certain types of terrain soil.

Vermiculite is grey / silver in color and spongey in texture. It has varied in granular size with regards to different batches I have had in the large bags. It is water proof in itself and used in bedding above ground swimming pools to cushion the liner to reduce the punchure potential. I would float due to its lightweight physical makeup.

I have had some pieces surface but didn't seem to be a problem. Looks like pieces of rock actually when mixed with some soils.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/31/22 12:23 PM

Thanks for the explanation Mr. Jameson.

That is just the answer I was looking for.

I'll will have to experiment with the ratio to see what works right.

I'm guessing somewhere around a three to one mix of native soil to vermiculite might be enough to loosen the soil up a bit.

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 07/31/22 02:20 PM

Vermiculite is used in many potting soil mixes to keep it loose. If memory serves it is some sort of rock that is heated until it pops like popcorn.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/01/22 02:13 PM

I thought some might find this useful.

It seems like ants are a real problem for a lot folks using baited sets during the summer months.

Ortho makes a product called Home Defense that works extremely well for indoor and perimeter applications. It doesn’t seem to have any odor that I can detect.
It’s a clear liquid that comes with a convenient pump sprayer. I’ve been using this stuff around the house for years. Ants hate it. You might give it a try if you have unwanted guests at your sets. It creates a barrier insects don't want to cross. Just spray a circle around the set pattern and that’s it!

A 24 oz. pump spray bottle is $7.

1.3 gallon jug with spray wand runs about 16 bucks.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/01/22 04:22 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I thought some might find this useful.

It seems like ants are a real problem for a lot folks using baited sets during the summer months.

Ortho makes a product called Home Defense that works extremely well for indoor and perimeter applications. It doesn’t seem to have any odor that I can detect.
It’s a clear liquid that comes with a convenient pump sprayer. I’ve been using this stuff around the house for years. Ants hate it. You might give it a try if you have unwanted guests at your sets. It creates a barrier insects don't want to cross. Just spray a circle around the set pattern and that’s it!

A 24 oz. pump spray bottle is $7.

1.3 gallon jug with spray wand runs about 16 bucks.

[Linked Image]

The active Bifenthrin in that is the one doing the work as it can last several weeks in the soil before degrading. The Cypermethrin is quickly degraded when exposed to soil and sun but persists well in indoor settings.

The concentrates Talstar P, name brand, and Bifen, generic, are 30 and 15 bucks respectively for 16oz bottles that can be mixed to make 44 gallons.

I imagine Permethrin would be similar and will be trying it myself.

Posted By: sammy petty

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/01/22 10:12 PM

I use it on my m-44's in warm weather to keep ants from eating bait off of the bait heads. Just spray a ring around the gun about 8-10 inches out from the gun. An old gov't trapper told me about it several years ago

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 12:56 AM

Originally Posted by sammy petty

I use it on my m-44's in warm weather to keep ants from eating bait off of the bait heads.

Just spray a ring around the gun about 8-10 inches out from the gun.

An old gov't trapper told me about it several years ago

Thanks for the input Sam.

It’s good to hear you picked that up from an old-time G-Man. That at least lets me know I’m on the right track.

I haven’t seen or heard of this being used before, but I knew how effective and odorless it appears to be.

This could make a real difference on a hot weather coyote line if there isn’t a telltale scent they can pick up on.

Even the folks trapping coon with DP’s could benefit from the ant deterrent aspect.

For those interested, this stuff is available at any local Wal-Mart.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 01:11 AM

I’ll get some and try it around DP’s and see if I can make some catches first. Coons and possums ain’t no coyote, but we’ll see what happens.

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 01:32 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

I’ll get some and try it around DP’s and see if I can make some catches first. Coons and possums ain’t no coyote, but we’ll see what happens.

This is my thinking as well. Shouldn't be an issue for coon or opossum. Probably not as big an issue on pups or these dumb city coyotes but that one knothead that's been around the block a time or two?

I'll put it to the test this week as I'm setting up a job in the morning. There's pups and a collared mama. Should be interesting.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 01:36 AM

Your gunning for a collared coyote?

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 02:07 AM

Yup

Project Coyote done collared one near one of my properties. I was called in when they thought the den was on property. Turns out they can't read maps the den was off property.

Now they've moved on property so they got to go.

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 02:10 AM

The thing that irritates me is that our DNR is helping those coyote loving antis.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 03:04 AM

For those of us not in Georgia, what is Project Coyote? I've killed a collared wolf, and treed a collared lion with dogs, and a bear with ear tags that I assume was once collared. When I was a kid my dad had a coyote he had caught collared and tied up on a chain with the hounds, it wore out the snap and broke it, he wasn't paying attention when he fed the dogs and tossed food in its bowl. Next day when he came out there the food was gone. So he bedded a trap in front of the bowl and had the coyote the next day. A while later it broke the chain again. No luck catching it at the food bowl set, again.

About a year later the neighbor down the road three or four miles called to apologize to dad for shooting his coyote out in his hay field!

Moral of the story: if you're going to put a dog collar on a coyote, make sure you take the name plate off first!

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 08:47 AM

It's an anti group that preaches coexistence with urban coyotes and goes around the country doing studies on them. They did one in Chicago and now doing one in Atlanta.
Funny thing is they use footholds to catch their study animals.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 12:09 PM

College collars them here. Their first question always is “Did you release it?” Lol nope.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 12:53 PM

Gotcha. Can’t wait to see pics!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/02/22 11:37 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

College collars them here.

Their first question always is “Did you release it?”

NOPE....

I Love Happy Endings...

Posted By: warrior

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/03/22 12:27 AM

When I met with these folks one of the first things I said was, I assume you will want the collars back.

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/03/22 01:48 AM

Originally Posted by warrior

When I met with these folks one of the first things I said was, I assume you will want the collars back.

Lol what did they say? I’m guessing thier feelings were hurt lol !

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 02:03 AM

Anyone interested in catching bobcats might want to take a look at this.

When it comes to cats you always hear about big eye appeal, flashy sets, motion attractants, tinsel, feather boas, disco balls, and even audio recordings.

I think for the most part flashy cat attractors are a one trick pony in a majority of the cases. Once a cat has seen it the thrill is gone. I believe their holding power is very limited because there is no real reward.

Just like with the coyote, being on location trumps pulling a cat off his travel route to another site.

If you really want to catch and hold a cat’s attention show him something he really wants to eat.

Folks instinctively think rodents are the cat’s meow, and that is probably so if that is all that’s offered.

If given a choice between a nice chunk of carne and a little field mouse or rat, you can probably guess which one the cat will choose.

The cat in the photos below is willing to defend the prize night after night against multiple coyotes because it’s a high value item.
As far as Tom is concerned, it is a meal worth fighting for.

There is not a lure or visual made that has that type of holding power.

I have seen this same scenario played over and over again in the brush.

The cat arrives on the scene right at sunset.

He knows if he can beat the competition there and stake his claim he can handle the canine contingency.

[Linked Image]

It doesn’t take long for the coyote crew to arrive on the scene. He soon finds out he is an unwanted dinner guest.

[Linked Image]

This particular battle went on for over four hours.

[Linked Image]

The big male makes a pass, but doesn’t risk getting any closer.

[Linked Image]

The coyote is relentless, The cat is fearless.

[Linked Image]

The cat makes multiple charges at the coyotes during this time.

[Linked Image]

If this were two adult coyotes they would use the cat's charges against him.

One would decoy while the other darted in and swiped the goods. The juvenile is not much help.

[Linked Image]

Both coyotes walk away with an empty belly. They will be back.

[Linked Image]

Folks might keep this in mind next time they are targeting cats.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 02:20 AM

Must be nice not to have buzzards, lol. Ours would have that cleaned up in less than an hour.

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 03:28 AM

I’ve put cameras on gut piles several time and a cat camping out on a gut pile is pretty common. They ain’t leaving till they’re good and ready lol !

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 12:17 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Must be nice not to have buzzards, lol. Ours would have that cleaned up in less than an hour.

You’re right, it would be nice.

Bait is usually put out just before dark to avoid the flocks of flying monkeys.

It would be even better not to have hundreds of Cara Cara hanging around all winter. Their sharp eyes don’t miss a trick. Even a small bit of meat or hide the size of a fifty-cent piece is scooped up within a matter of minutes. They investigate anything and everything on the ground that might be food.

Then you have the Harris Hawk and Turkey Vulture just to make it interesting. The vultures don’t like crowds.

Here’s a slow day on a depleted bait.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 01:07 PM

Originally Posted by Sharkhunter

I’ve put cameras on gut piles several time and a cat camping out on a gut pile is pretty common.
They ain’t leaving till they’re good and ready lol !

You Betcha!

They stay and/or fight for it because it is at the top of their favorite things to eat. A fresh deer carcass is in the same category.

You can mimic that same fresh bait scenario at you sets, whether it be bait covered with debris or a traditional hole set. Not necessarily bait like in the photos, but something of a little more substantial amount than what is normally put at a set. Fresh scraps will work just as well. Just grind while still super fresh then add sodium benzoate and you're good to go!

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 02:09 PM

I see a similar situation on my bait. Starting in mid January I’ll have a pair of yotes find my bait and set up shop. My yote sightings will go way down until I kill the pair. Funny thing is you would think they would hammer the bait till gone. They eat on it regularly but seem more into keeping it for themselves than anything else. Kill the female and the male is usually killed later that night or the next night on a scent post. Then the yote sightings pick up big time. Seen this for the last five years. About every two weeks a different pair seems to set up shop if I do my part and kill the “resident pair”.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/05/22 06:57 PM

Greedy rascals aren't they LOL... Thats good info Yote.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/06/22 12:06 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

I see a similar situation on my bait. Starting in mid January I’ll have a pair of yotes find my bait and set up shop. My yote sightings will go way down until I kill the pair. Funny thing is you would think they would hammer the bait till gone. They eat on it regularly but seem more into keeping it for themselves than anything else. Kill the female and the male is usually killed later that night or the next night on a scent post. Then the yote sightings pick up big time. Seen this for the last five years. About every two weeks a different pair seems to set up shop if I do my part and kill the “resident pair”.

Those are some good observations, and it lends credence to the fact that you’ve been keeping tabs on them for five years or more. I have done the same here.

You have a healthy population as do I, but I’ve noticed here that one pair or individual will not rule over bait to the point where others avoid the area. They will wait their turn in the wings for the dominate coyotes to get their fill and move on. They will still work the location no matte who is there.

Regardless, coyotes of any rank hammer the bait for all it is worth. That could be in part because of the bird factor. What they leave to the day will be gone by nightfall.

I can tell when there is a new gang in town by the infighting when a newcomer is trying to take over the top position.

I could be mistaken, but I think you get a different reaction from the remaining coyotes when shooting versus trapping.

What’s your take Yote?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/06/22 02:14 PM

Here is another good example of holding power without the threat of competition.

This is a different location. There is no sign of Wile E. the entire time.

The bait is put out right at dusk. Tom arrives at the scene just a little over an hour later.

[Linked Image]

The cat camps out from 7:45 p.m. until 6:45 a.m. the following morning. He stayed in the area for eleven hours.

He covers the bait just before sunrise before taking a well deserved cat nap.

[Linked Image]

.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/07/22 11:44 AM

Tejas the sections around my place where I shoot them I haven’t trapped in a long time. The last time I did I caught 21 yotes on a 350 yard field transition. Another year I did 19 there. The last five years of just shooting them I’ve killed a high of 38 and a low of 20 per year.
I feel I have access to more yotes shooting them only because of the large baits. I also feel there has to be yotes I never see that could be easily trapped. Just to paranoid to approach my shed. The game I play is close range in your face yote killin. Anywhere from 30 yards to 12 feet. You can’t make a mistake. Always wondered when I shoot a yote how many other yotes just watched him die.
The resident yotes are way different than the travelers. They are usually killed the first week of season under the regular white lights as they are used to them. This one is 12’ from my kill window. I know because I measured it. Lol Next. Night was opening day. He didn’t make it. Four shots,three hits with the single six. Love that gun.
[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/07/22 11:56 AM

I kill about half on bait and half on scent posts. Makes for some interesting viewing. Seems like some yotes could care less about the bait and will spend a lot of time rolling and marking the scent posts. These are pre occupied and are setting ducks. It a flip flopping yote is a hard target. Lol
I feel a much better approach would be to lay off a section or so and trap it hard while shooting them on the bait.
The pairs are the most interesting. Just because it’s a pair doesn’t mean it’s a male and female. Killed a few pairs over the years that were adult males. Guarded the bait the same and that can happen at anytime
Also have killed a few triples that are the adult pair and a young female during late Jan to March.
One of the first years I started figuring this out I was trapping some. Within 3/4 of a mile from the bait I trapped and shot 43 in three months. I’m on a great travel way. I’ve shot yotes in my yard in day time. It all stated it in about 1996 when my dog was barking at 2am. I looked out the window and 5 yotes were in the yard looking at him. 4 left. Every since then I’ve killed at least 11 a year here with a high of 38. Most years in the 20s. Location, location,location.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/07/22 02:13 PM

Rob if I remember right your on the north side of that big lake. Do you think you have a funnel type affect or just great habitat?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/07/22 03:29 PM

Has to be a funnel effect. River, big lake and RR tracks all come into play I think.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/07/22 05:15 PM

Great post with lots of thought provoking ideas...I’ve been to Rob’ s shooting gallery...I mean place before.
Like he said funnel effect ...unbelievable population.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/07/22 09:21 PM

TEJAS

Thanks for sharing all the cool information. For those that will read between the lines you offer a lot of coyote and good cat information.
Thank you sir.

Mac

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/08/22 01:48 PM

Rob, it’s evident you realize there is great value in paying a little more attention than the average wolfer.

It sounds like you have all the key components to make for a steady stream of coyotes as well.

Your methods are without a doubt as deadly as they get.The point blank coyote gallery looks like a heck of a lot of fun to boot! I’m surprised you haven’t put an arrow through a few of them just for grins!

Ive found the same coyote partnerships to be common in my area as well.

I believe in my case the real magic is in the draw. The old adage “a crowd attracts a crowd” describes it well. It seems to build upon itself over time. I feel that is what gives me the numbers. I’ve found there to be several factors that account for this besides the obvious.

I take a different approach and never shoot off the bait. If i shoot even a couple off the site they will quit it in a heartbeat.

One evening a few hours before dark I sat on a new bait that was being hit hard. I observed from a high elevation as not to spook any coyotes. That afternoon before sunset I had counted eleven. I assumed that a few of those were repeat customers since activity is always erratic. Someone asked, “Why I didn’t you take the hornet and kill them”? I replied, “I might have been able to get two or three, but it would have made the bait site go cold. I want to kill them all, not just a few”. The next day I set that pasture with only fourteen traps. The next morning I had three doubles. By the third morning I had eleven.

That pasture went void of tracks in the weeks to follow.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/08/22 09:39 PM

Way to go Tejas! If it wasn’t for my funnel I think I could shoot my self out of yotes in a hurry and have a dead bait.
Another thing I have really noticed here is the relationship between crows and yotes. Many many times I’ve seen a bait in an excellent location not hit for days. When the crows start working it the yotes are there that night. I’m convinced that in our wide open terrain the yotes pay close attention to crows from their day bed. Then after dark they go see what all the commotion was about.
Also I rarely kill any possums and never any foxes on the bait. These varmints are my advertising. The yotes back track them right to the bait. I have personally shot three yotes chasing foxes over the years.
Yotes always give a guy something to learn. From what I’ve seen they will show you where they want to die. Just pay attention.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/09/22 01:12 PM

I've noticed the crow relationship with draw stations too. They have a certain caw they call around big food sources. Coyotes and foxes know what it means.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/09/22 03:11 PM

The Cara Cara is the dinner bell alarm here.

They fight a lot, and eat even more.

With this competition for carne comes a great deal of racket.

The coyote knows he better get there quick if he wants a piece of the pie.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/09/22 11:52 PM

This is a good example of what happens when food hits the ground during daylight hours.

The rib cage only had an hour or two soak time with the birds. This carcass was one of several.

[Linked Image]

The Cara Cara would eat the sinew strands if they could get them off.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/10/22 05:56 PM

I don’t see that kind of damage. They look intense.
If I get buzzards on mine they eat me out of house and home. But it usually takes a couple days. Used post holes one year because they were so bad.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/10/22 05:59 PM

I do get the laziest red tails in the county on my bait all winter. Lol

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/10/22 06:35 PM

What does everyone prefer at a bait ? It’s deer for me , beaver may lay around for two weeks sometimes around here.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/10/22 07:13 PM

A friend usually uses smaller dead cows from producers than loose them. He does pick up road killed deer when he can and says the coyotes prefer the deer and usually hit it right away. Usually takes a good cold spell before they hit the beef.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/10/22 07:37 PM

Deer here.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/13/22 02:40 AM

Cattle work well, but they rot quickly if you don’t zip them open so the scavengers can get at the goods.

You have to be on a dead cow quick around here, just like the Cara Cara and coyote.

The big bait has great drawing potential, but the window of opportunity is very narrow.

On this particular night, Old Tripod (pg. 18), defended the top spot for eight hours straight before heading home at six am.

The six remaining adults were on the heavy side, but they couldn’t match the fight Old T could dish out.

[Linked Image]

Around fifteen of his competitors met their fate here in just a matter of days.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/13/22 12:23 PM

Great pic Tejas! Looks to a winter time pic with the heavier fur on those ‘yotes.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/14/22 12:48 AM

Awesome pic Tejas.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/15/22 10:33 PM

Thanks fellas.

MChewk , that photo was taken in late March.

Fortunately, we don’t get that nasty looking mange or lice too often here.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/16/22 10:04 AM

I’ve often heard trappers say they're not catching because Wile E. is full from all the gut piles and/or wounded deer left by hunters during season.

After watching them in the chow line over and over again, I don’t believe that a full belly is to blame for lack of interest in most cases.

It may even prove to be beneficial if your location has more meat hit the ground than the other surrounding farms or ranches in the area.

Most adult coyotes I’ve seen won’t think twice about going back for a second or third helping if it's available.

[Linked Image]

Folks might keep that in mind when hunting season rolls around this year.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/16/22 12:12 PM

Geez, that coyote looks like it's about ready to burst!

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/16/22 12:25 PM

Great stuff.

Mac

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/16/22 01:42 PM

I used to trap a dead pit for hogs . The fact that I’ve caught many coyotes over the years that we’re packing a lunch when I caught them says they don’t have to be hungry to get they’re attention.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/16/22 02:46 PM

Tejas, do you think that the coyotes that are going back for a third helping are actually eating that much or caching some of it?

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 02:23 AM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

I used to trap a dead pit for hogs . The fact that I’ve caught many coyotes over the years that we’re packing a lunch when I caught them says they don’t have to be hungry to get they’re attention.

I’m assuming regular pigs not feral if that makes sense? Just curious cause our coyotes won’t touch feral hogs.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 04:35 AM

It’s amazing the amount of meat 4 or 5 yotes can pack off in one night. But I don’t see that behavior on placed baits very often at all. The times I’ve seen massive amounts of damage such as an entire deer eaten in one night has always been on wounded or unrecovered deer. Don’t know if this is a competition thing between yotes or just because it’s fresh. They have to be eating and then going and burying it I would think. Twice I’ve seen deer that were wounded and left till morning for recovery reduced to a skeleton by dawn.
I’ve also caught a few yotes that brought snacks with them to the set. This one had his lucky rabbits head with him. Also had one with a fist size piece of deer once.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 11:13 AM

Rob I’ll hypothetically talk on that “ amazing amount of meat eaten”...I think it is a entire family unit still intact. Around here I think the family units stay pretty much together for most of the year. I know what the theories say but in my findings unless an adult or two are killed the unit stays tight. Now if mama gets spooked or trapped it MIGHT drastically change things up. I just trap too many family groups to think differently.
So once a family finds a carcass of a deer it is dinner like always adults eat then the kids until everything is cleaned up.
Your thoughts guys?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 11:30 AM

That’s interesting, I’ll bet your on to something. Wonder if yote family units stay together longer in more urban environments. Don’t they do a lot of studies on yotes in Chicago? Have you seen any of that data?

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 01:22 PM

I had 2 yotes clean up a road killed deer in 2 days 2x. Both where adult does. Greed and curiosity killed them all.. In my mind there's no such thing as a hungry coyote.

According to Slim they take chunks and stash it; some never return to get the stash.

Posted By: WhiteCliffs

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 04:22 PM

Coyotes will eat dead feral hogs here. I believe our feral hogs provide the main food source for a lot of our coyotes. A few years ago, a friend shot a doe right at dark. We lost the trail a few hours after dark. This was in late bow season - February. Came back the next morning and found her - nothing but a skeleton. BUT, there was a single 12” long fetus laying 15 ft from the doe skeleton without a tooth mark on it. We all thought that would have been a prized delicacy

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 04:41 PM

Good info in those stories guys...WhiteCliffs that situation occurs all the time around here. Rob I haven’t actually seen the data just stories about the numbers of coyotes living in the city...Chicago and all the rest of suburbia. Think about it if there is plenty of food available in an area and no pressure from other predators or man ...why move out? But again just my theories...

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 04:46 PM

Originally Posted by WhiteCliffs

Coyotes will eat dead feral hogs here. I believe our feral hogs provide the main food source for a lot of our coyotes. A few years ago, a friend shot a doe right at dark. We lost the trail a few hours after dark. This was in late bow season - February. Came back the next morning and found her - nothing but a skeleton. BUT, there was a single 12” long fetus laying 15 ft from the doe skeleton without a tooth mark on it. We all thought that would have been a prized delicacy

Yeah I hear stories even around my county where trapping doesn’t take place, of deer being left as short as three hours and the coyotes already finding them.
We’ve had to cover hogs with dirt after a month when the buzzards wouldn’t even mess with them, especially when quail season is in and we’re hunting. For some reason Pointers LOVE to go roll on a dead pig, lol!!!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/22 10:54 PM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Tejas, do you think that the coyotes that are going back for a third helping are actually eating that much or caching some of it?

SPC, I can say with a good deal of certainty that where I am at the vast majority of meat is consumed on site and not taken to another location.

I think they camp out and/or make repeat visits to top off the tank as much as possible because they never know what will be left by the next sunset. I have no doubt they realize the urgency to get more than their fair share before the sun comes up and the birds descend upon the carcass. Rival coyotes make up the other part of that equation. That somewhat covers the greed factor side of things.

I also believe they will avoid stashing food in part because some birds have the ability to find it no matter what. Add that to the fact that any coyote getting downwind of a stash will have no problem locating it as well.

The bottom line is, in this environment meat is a lot safer stored in their stomach than it is hidden out in the brush for others to find.

When they do happen to yank a chunk of flesh or bone off the carcass, they’ll quickly consume it and come right back to the bait. If they don’t eat it right away a rival surely will.

Posted By: bucksnbears

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/18/22 02:56 AM

Great topic/discussion fellas.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/18/22 12:05 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Rob I’ll hypothetically talk on that “ amazing amount of meat eaten”...I think it is a entire family unit still intact. Around here I think the family units stay pretty much together for most of the year. I know what the theories say but in my findings unless an adult or two are killed the unit stays tight. Now if mama gets spooked or trapped it MIGHT drastically change things up. I just trap too many family groups to think differently.
So once a family finds a carcass of a deer it is dinner like always adults eat then the kids until everything is cleaned up.

Your thoughts guys?

MChewk , I agree with you on the pups hanging around a lot longer than many folks say.

In my area I don’t see the early fall “pup dispersal” that trappers talk about. They disperse when I teach them to “load up” in the bed of the Polaris.

I've noticed that for the most part pups/juveniles will usually just pick at a cow carcass. They spend most of their time keeping an eye out for who is lurking in the shadows. Their fear is well warranted. I do not see them gorge on a big carcass with limited access. in many cases their vision will be obstructed if they commit to eating like in the photo below. That will get them hurt quickly. A small or skinned carcass is a different story. Still, I rarely see pups or juveniles dog-bellied like the adults at the end of a night’s feeding.

Big quantities of meat are consumed by a lot of big adult coyotes. It’s no surprise that all 15 coyotes caught at cow #1 were adults.

That kind of hostile environment is no place for the young guns.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/18/22 12:54 PM

I've seen the family group together at a carcass in early season. I bet the only reason they were there together was because the male was a tail kicker. His presence kept other coyotes at bay.

Here is what I believe to be a family group with Dad out front, the youngsters in the background, and Mom to the far left.

[Linked Image]

I have little doubt that an active carcass is the most dangerous place a pup or yearling can be.

Even dad at their side doesn’t guarantee them a pleasant dining experience.

These two pups were nightly visitors and spent a lot of time at the carcass. With all the time they logged there they never seemed to eat very much.

Check out the injured left hind quarter on the pup lying down. That wound occurred on that same evening

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/19/22 04:17 AM

This is the other end of the spectrum. 19 yotes have died here and this pup came in without hesitation. Got him a snack and laid down with it between his front legs. I like Tejas, like happy endings so he became #20. Lol

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/19/22 10:47 AM

I believe/ agree with a lot of the studies and theories made by veteran trappers and biologists. But there are times when something’s just don’t add up. Example...in the Spring the young of the year are born. Had a robin nest near our window. The bird was crazy constantly banging off the glass and was a pain in the butt when we had to walk past the nest to get to the hose to water plants. So after the eggs hatched and the chicks were born the nest was removed in late May. Well she’s back and nesting again? Huh?
Recently trapped a female possum with 9 babies in the pouch....in mid August? Several times over the years I have caught juvenile raccoon in December? Few seasons back I had a coyote pup caught in January? So...never say never and never say always.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/19/22 12:45 PM

I think a lot of smaller birds nest multiple times a year. Pretty sure I had one bluebird pair that raised at least 3 different bunches and hve seen house wrens do the same.
There are exceptions to mammals breeding too
For example, the main whitetail rut here is around the first wek of Nov. but the does that miss getting bred will come in estrous again 28 days later. Heard of a doe being shot in December that had a near full term fetus in her. Gestation for them is 201 days which would have put her being bred in late June to early July.
MChewk you are correct, there are no absolutes in nature

This is a great thread James, lots of information in these kinds of threads

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/20/22 06:04 PM

You’re welcome BT.

As stated earlier; the folks that join in and contribute are the ones who make it what it is.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/21/22 04:53 PM

Here is another big male that takes the term dog-bellied to another level.

I guess he thinks if he empties his bladder he can belly up to the bovine buffet one more time.

I've found that males with a good fight game tend to gorge to the maximum simply because they can.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/21/22 07:11 PM

Originally Posted by Mac

TEJAS

Thanks for sharing all the cool information.

For those that will read between the lines you offer a lot of coyote and good cat information.

Thank you sir.

Mac

It's been my pleasure Mac!

I’ve heard you put a major hurt on those big timber coyotes not too many years ago.

My guess is you’d do well in any location where a coyote makes tracks.

Even so, you see the benefit of keeping an open mind and are always looking to learn even more.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/21/22 11:40 PM

Big coyotes like this one make for a not so friendly environment for adults and kids alike.

Notice the gash on the youngster exiting stage right.

This guy is a monster in my book.

[Linked Image]

Males of this size command respect at the bait. They are usually given a wide birth.

It was a busy night at the buffet up until this Bad Hombre arrived on the scene.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Leary Sink

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/22/22 04:49 AM

Tejas
Do you ever set kick backs as a flat set?
How would you suggest making the set including wind direction?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/22/22 05:07 PM

Originally Posted by Leary Sink

Tejas
Do you ever set kick backs as a flat set?
How would you suggest making the set including wind direction?

You Bet!

As long as there is a good amount of an additional sign in the area that is.

A single set of tracks with a kickback from a coyote just passing through and no other visible sign would probably get a pass. A kickback by itself doesn’t necessarily make for a good location. The amount of sign does.

I usually don’t set the original mark and kickback, although you could if you wanted to. In that case I would cover the same spot and match the attractants left by the coyote.

I normally set close to the kickback with my own calling card.

If a mark is made on the upwind side of a trail or road, make your set just a few yards away parallel to the original. Keep your set at the road’s edge on the upwind side.

If the mark is on the downwind side of the road make your set across from it on the upwind side.

Try to pick a feature like a small tuft of grass or even a single weed that crowds the edge of the road and set it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/23/22 12:15 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Our coyotes won’t touch feral hogs. We’ve had to cover hogs with dirt after a month when the buzzards wouldn’t even mess with them.

That's odd WB. Maybe those Georgia coyotes don’t like "the other white meat".

I’ve yet to see a coyote turn down a fresh hog here.

[Linked Image]

(Look again if you didn't see four.)

These border buzzards have never met a carcass they didn’t like.

Even three legged coyotes like to dine on swine.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/23/22 01:51 PM

At this bait the coyotes seemed to prefer an old rotten hog over a fresh deer carcass for some reason.

When it came down to scraps they polished off both by the end of the night. You never can tell.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/23/22 02:49 PM

Tejas I like the pics but they ain't. No way I could get close enough to set a trap around that. That would just do me in with the smell . Lol . Anyway when were those pics taken those yote look real good.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/23/22 04:18 PM

What cameras you using to get color pics at night? I know with my cameras (Stealthcam) everything but deer and elk seem to notice them at night, even though they are IR flash. Even deer and elk will come lick them at times, usually shortly after I've checked them so I'm assuming salt residue from my hands.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/23/22 10:46 PM

Too many deer down here for them to feast on those stinking things. Some hogs the buzzards will have cleaned up in 2 days, others will be there until they just completely decompose.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/24/22 10:02 AM

Originally Posted by Slipknot

Tejas, I like the pics but they're ain't no way I could get close enough to set a trap around that. That would just do me in with the smell . Lol .

Anyway, when were those pics taken? Those yotes look real good.

That little bit of stink shouldn’t bother a Cajun.

In the words of Robert Duvall it “smells like………......Victory”!

SK, those photos were taken in early November.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/24/22 10:33 AM

I'm no Cajun but regardless that still wouldn't happen for me. Lol. If you can say. What county are you in? A few years ago I hunted several Ranches in South Texas. Thanks for posting up good info to learn from.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/24/22 07:19 PM

Originally Posted by bearcat2

What cameras you using to get color pics at night?

I believe those were Covert cams BC2.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/25/22 03:33 PM

Wannabe the dead pit I was trapping is for domestic pigs. Sorry it took so long , been out west.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/25/22 06:17 PM

Originally Posted by Golf ball

Wannabe the dead pit I was trapping is for domestic pigs. Sorry it took so long , been out west.

No problem. Hope you had a great trip!

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/26/22 01:41 PM

Coyote Days is always a great trip .

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/31/22 11:26 AM

The Power of Bait

A good many folks probably won’t look much further than the number of coyotes in the photo.They’ll most likely assume there’s a big coyote density and trapping is relatively easy in that area.

If they looked a little closer they might realize that perhaps the magic is not so much in the area; the magic is in the bait. They don’t stop to think that the local population may have already been wiped out, and all of those coyotes are transients. The bait actually brought them there.

[Linked Image]

Like Mac said, you have to read between the lines. That goes for posts in this thread and on your own trap line.

As some might have guessed, the gist of this whole series of trail cam coyote photos was to showcase the effectiveness of the bait station.

A coyote might prefer certain type bait, but in the end they will eat what is available whether its deer, swine, cattle, sheep, or goat. What you have at hand is what you should use. Keep in mind there is considerably more to this than simply throwing out a carcass and walking off.

For those looking to really reduce coyote numbers, this is one of the best tools you have at your disposal.

If you set it up right you’ll kill more coyotes no matter where you are.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/31/22 11:39 AM

It would be interesting to hear how many other coyote trappers out there have actually used a bait station.

If you have, what kind of results did you see? Was it worth the trouble setting one up on your line?

My hope is that these posts this might prompt a few trappers to give it a try this season.

I believe It is well worth the time and effort.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/31/22 01:18 PM

I picked up a club to trap right before deer season last yr. They have a gut pit right close to camp. When I did get to start in Feb. I think I picked up 9 on the roads leading to it. After that I have rode in the area several times looking for tracks and could only find one set.The gut pile had been depleted by then .It works I am waiting on Feb.now to get back In there.

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/31/22 06:45 PM

Bait stations have been my go to strategy to pull coyotes off property that I couldn't access with wheeled vehicles or couldn't get permission------- just get them to walk over to my side or where I could get to. It works wonderfully but I set back off a little-- bait has to be where they are pulled into my access with some room and choke points---- here they are on high alert next to the bait piles, i like to set blind sets, snares and very subtle flat sets on their travel path ----- been doing it this way 8 or 10 yrs. I also like to get it baited up and being hit before I set steel in place.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/01/22 11:58 AM

This is some solid advice from KS Wolfer on how to set up and work a bait station.

Originally Posted by ks wolfer

Bait stations have been my go to strategy to pull coyotes off property that I couldn't access with wheeled vehicles or couldn't get permission------- just get them to walk over to my side or where I could get to. It works wonderfully but I set back off a little-- bait has to be where they are pulled into my access with some room and choke points---- here they are on high alert next to the bait piles, i like to set blind sets, snares and very subtle flat sets on their travel path ----- been doing it this way 8 or 10 yrs. I also like to get it baited up and being hit before I set steel in place.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 12:29 PM

Here's something you don’t see every day.

I’ve never run across a club foot like this one before.

Has anyone seen anything similar to this?

What's your guess on what might have happened?

[Linked Image]

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 01:43 PM

Wow Tejas, that had to make an interesting track! Wonder what his/ her story is.

Posted By: la4wd54

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 02:16 PM

Old trap injury?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 04:20 PM

Seems like we get all the weird stuff here as well.
[Linked Image]

Shot in the face.
[Linked Image]

No back leg.
[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 04:23 PM

Tripods are pretty common here. If you kill 75 plus yotes I bet you see a tripod here.

[Linked Image]

Cancer ?

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 06:03 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Tripods are pretty common here. If you kill 75 plus yotes I bet you see a tripod here.

[Linked Image]

Cancer ?

2nd picture isn't cancer. Canine papilloma virus causes the warts around mouth.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 06:11 PM

Looks like leprosy to me, best to wear gloves and don’t scratch anywhere....lol
Armadillos are supposed to be carriers and I see recipes all the time. Yuck!
I have seen nubs before in fact have caught coyotes by the nubbed paw?? Dumb coyote or what?
Saw a video of a coyote that had only front legs left ...respond to a predator call and get shot. Amazing critters! Tough!

Posted By: Leary Sink

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/02/22 10:03 PM

Tejas
Out of James Lucero’s lures, have you found one that works better with just SMC urine or plain yote urine versus one that seems to work better with a gland lure.
I understand the new lure you and SteelTraps are testing is a food lure, how is that working out?

My lure order just arrived today, Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/06/22 11:20 AM

Originally Posted by Leary Sink

Tejas

Out of James Lucero’s lures, have you found one that works better with just SMC urine or plain yote urine versus one that seems to work better with a gland lure?

My lure order just arrived today, Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!

JL # 1 has remained my best producing coyote lure no matter what urine I use with it.

I have found it to be a top shelf cat killer as well.

Coyotero and Winter Wolf always battle back and forth for the number two position.

Since the beginning, I have pitted Lucero’s lures against a long list of heavy hitters that are known for their effectiveness.

All lures are used in equal rotation on the line to achieve a constant.

Posted By: Leary Sink

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/06/22 07:54 PM

Thank you sir

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/06/22 10:13 PM

James, my theory is tht coyote was caught before by that hind foot and managed to pull out

I can't tell if that is dirt in a still semi open wound or calluses on the nub but appears to be fresh and still swollen to me

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/07/22 10:14 PM

I’ve used large baits for years trapping. They can be used in several different ways. I use a lot of legs. Each deer supplies me with 5 baits.
We could start another post on how to use them. They can be used to attract yotes to where you want to catch them or the way I do it most of the time is I use them to get the yotes using specific travel ways. I may actually catch the yotes 1/4 or 1/2 mile away from the bait.
Baits can also be used to occupy non targets while you catch the yotes on their way to or from the bait.
I rarely kill and other species while I have a bait out. They are your advertising agency.
There is a lot to using large baits and trapping. Play with them and cameras. It is very educational.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/09/22 02:12 PM

Originally Posted by Leary Sink

Thank you sir

You Betcha Leary!

Keep in mind others have had better luck with Coyotero and/or Winter Wolf.

It’s important to note that in my case, MB’s coyote & red fox urine have killed a lot of coyotes as well. They always have a place in my tote.

I think most would agree that there is no best attractant or combo for every situation, set, or location.

Only trial and error can provide the best answer for each individual trapper on their own ground.

Don’t limit your attractant usage based on what others have found to be most effective or not.

If you have the lure and urine at your disposal, put them to the test on your own line then you’ll know for certain what produces best for you.

Posted By: MartinT

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/09/22 02:35 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

I’ve used large baits for years trapping. They can be used in several different ways. I use a lot of legs. Each deer supplies me with 5 baits.
We could start another post on how to use them. They can be used to attract yotes to where you want to catch them or the way I do it most of the time is I use them to get the yotes using specific travel ways. I may actually catch the yotes 1/4 or 1/2 mile away from the bait.
Baits can also be used to occupy non targets while you catch the yotes on their way to or from the bait.
I rarely kill and other species while I have a bait out. They are your advertising agency.
There is a lot to using large baits and trapping. Play with them and cameras. It is very educational.

I've done that with a variety of baits as well, from deer hide/guts to bycatch like coons or skunks.
Set up the trail or road leading to the bait.
Too close will get a caracara scratching at your set.
Still learning all this stuff, though.
The input on this thread from everyone is very helpful.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/13/22 02:49 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

I’ve used large baits for years trapping. They can be used in several different ways. I use a lot of legs. Each deer supplies me with 5 baits.

They can be used to attract yotes to where you want to catch them or the way I do it most of the time is I use them to get the yotes using specific travel ways. I may actually catch the yotes 1/4 or 1/2 mile away from the bait.

Baits can also be used to occupy non targets while you catch the yotes on their way to or from the bait. I rarely kill and other species while I have a bait out. They are your advertising agency.

There is a lot to using large baits and trapping. Play with them and cameras. It is very educational.

You Betcha!

Yote, I originally started setting up locations for shooting purposes many years ago.. I quickly realized that in my area it is much more effective than calling. I’ve found that shooting off bait here is effective, but somewhat limited. They wise up quickly to either one. Trapping yields much better results in my case.

On sets I do the same thing. Some of the coyotes are caught hundreds of yards away on trails leading to and from the station. Those are usually set specific locations. Most of the time the coyotes caught on those trails are wise guys.

I mainly set where coyotes spend the most time. That can be different for each individual location.

I’ve found that when coyotes dominate a site I won’t see a single cat, fox, or coon at the bait. This holds true even though they are always in the vicinity. I have yet to catch even a single non-target at an active site up to this point.

For me, catching coyotes is all about increasing the odds. The more time a coyote spends in the area the better my odds get.

Posted By: trappergbus

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/14/22 12:05 PM

I have freezer full of beaver, muskrat and mink carcasses waiting

If you don't have permission on key locations make one...

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/14/22 09:34 PM

Making Coyote Bait

Unlike lure, commercial bait seems relatively expensive for the amount you get vs. the quantity you would use at a set.

You can make a top shelf product with a good grinder, a bit of carne, and a little SB.

[Linked Image]

Fresh works best in these parts, so that is what I offer them.

[Linked Image]

Coyote Goodness in a jar.

[Linked Image]

Keep things simple and you'll kill more coyotes.

[Linked Image]

This doesn't hurt.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/14/22 09:40 PM

Who makes their own bait, or is considering mixing up a homemade batch this season ?

I believe that trappers would tend to use more at sets if they made their own.

It would stand to reason that a bigger prize with more holding power should equate to additional catches in the long run.

I know there are quite a few out there that have been making their own bait for many a season.

It would be interesting to hear from those willing to share a little info on what has worked best over the years.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/14/22 10:18 PM

I tried it once last year done some deer meat in Dobbins bait solution. I used it a couple times and caught a few in the winter ,Still have some left I will use this winter . I am going to pick up some Alligator scraps this weekend and process a batch form the upcoming season.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/14/22 11:13 PM

I will be using chunks of muskrat and I will be grinding a batch of old deer meat that a guy just gave me today. The rat goes in a hole with nothing but a little blood as the container thaws. The ground meat will have a few simple ingredients, salt , honey, vanilla, molasses, and bacon grease. If I remember right I added hair from a deers legs to the last batch I made . Just seemed like the thing to do .

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 01:40 AM

I hope to make some of my own baits this season. Probably do one beaver and one venison. Been playing with some lure making recently and it’s been a lot of fun. I think you’re right in that I would throw a bigger glob of bait down if I new I could get it virtually free.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 10:42 AM

Originally Posted by Slipknot

I am going to pick up some Alligator scraps this weekend and process a batch form the upcoming season.

I’d be interested to hear how the alligator works out SK.

Are you going add SB to it and use it fresh or taint it a bit?

In either case, I wonder if you might get a bit of rolling response with the gator.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 11:49 AM

Sportsman and all the southern guys what about ground up pig? Has anyone tried it before?

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 11:52 AM

Based on camera pics…nothing eats our pigs but buzzards and sometimes they won’t touch one.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 11:56 AM

Thanks for the response wanna be....strange behavior for sure. I’m wondering if a guy took a ham out and ground it up for a different presentation if it would be more attractive?

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 12:09 PM

MChewk, I have never tried it, but sure the coyotes around here have eaten it on occasion. I killed a young pig last year around the time I had killed a deer. I put them both in a thicket after cleaning. The deer got pulled out of the thicket into the field while the pig rotted away right where it sat. With that said, I wouldnt hesitate to try it on a small scale, but I dont think I wouldnt have real high expectations

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 12:14 PM

I made a bunch two years ago that I am still working on. One is a horse base that has been working well for me and the other is bobcat based that has been alright for a change up.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 12:15 PM

Weird, especially after seeing Tejas’ pics of the coyotes polishing off that pig...

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 12:43 PM

Originally Posted by trappergbus

I have freezer full of beaver, muskrat and mink carcasses waiting

If you don't have permission on key locations make one...

That right there is worth than most will ever realize.

Mac

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 12:47 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Based on camera pics…nothing eats our pigs but buzzards and sometimes they won’t touch one.

That is quite odd. Not to be real stupid, but I know nothing about wild hogs, is the hide super tough do you think they simply do not like it?
Hog or regular old pig is a bait I have never tried. One of my students, after a couple lessons, lashed a freezer burned ham to a tree and proceeded to catch a couple fisher. Go figure.

Mac

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 01:27 PM

When I put a pig in a field I’ve split them open and left them whole. Sometimes the buzzards eat them, sometimes they won’t. Just like Sportsman said, a dead deer will be gone the next day.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 02:46 PM

Coyotes I know locally and in some mid western states will eat domestic hogs. I have worked on many dump stations over the years that brought the coyotes and other opportunists to these sites. Buzzards really like them. I had to set way off from the dump sites to keep away from their milling around over my set up area.

Old big sows and piglets all bring interest at a bait pile. Of course many of these bait piles have been there for years so there is some conditioning involved.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 07:56 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

What about ground up pig? Has anyone tried it before?

MChewk, I’ve used chunks of fresh pork and did well. I’ve caught several really old coyotes off feral pig.

I can’t imagine a coyote passing up a fresh chunk of marrano if that is the lunch special for the day.

I've never ground any up. I’ll give it a try this year and see how much they like the South Texas swine tartare.

I'll try it with the dirt hole change-up you suggested.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/15/22 11:28 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Slipknot

I am going to pick up some Alligator scraps this weekend and process a batch form the upcoming season.

I’d be interested to hear how the alligator works out SK.

Are you going add SB to it and use it fresh or taint it a bit?

In either case, I wonder if you might get a bit of rolling response with the gator.

Gonna do a light taint and then ad the SB.Just wondering why do you think they might roll.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 12:19 AM

I’m not a snake killer, but I’ve often wondered about rattlesnake meat or I guess any snake meat. I know I’ve personally seen several bobcats crossing the road with snakes before, and I mean some big ole snakes. Don’t know if coyotes would like it or not.

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 01:04 AM

Slipknot, I think that would be because gator oil is said to get a rolling response. Don’t quote me on that. There’s a guy in GA who has used gator meat and says it’s worked well for him on bobcats.

Wannabe, I have been working with some rattlesnake juice and the lures I’ve tested with it have gotten positive reactions from coyotes so far. I have another one in the freezer that I will taint once it cools down some and use as more of a bait. I know Wayne Derrick has several lures that use rattlesnake meat.

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 01:49 AM

Rattlesnake chunked up good bait for western KS coyotes---- I keep them froze in freezer till use and use them fresh in chunks------ don't let the missus stumble over one hunting froze veggies !

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 10:38 AM

Originally Posted by Slipknot

Wondering why do you think they might roll.

Just because of that swampy fish-like smell.

I haven't seen many dogs that would pass on the opportunity to roll on a dead fish.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 11:52 AM

Snake is an interesting option as a lure ingredient, but there is no way I could round up enough rattlesnakes to make a big batch of bait.

The protected Blue Indigo helps keep our rattlesnake numbers in check. They are a constrictor.

It is my understanding that they are the largest native snake in Texas.

A good size indigo runs six to eight feet.This big girl is in the seven foot range. It is always good to see them on the hunt.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 12:08 PM

Dang Tejas! She can go wherever she wants...big sucker! Let me speak for us Northern guys on snakes...we mostly have the common garter snake but they do emit a fishy smell when alarmed aka picked up. You pick one up and you're stinky the rest of the day...there is no doubt that they would attract a predator if used at a set. I believe they eat mostly insects.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 01:50 PM

Our adult garter snakes love toads in these parts. The juveniles are insect feeders for the most part.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/16/22 11:23 PM

As much time as I spend wading through dense brush and high buffelgrass without snake boots or gaiters I’m glad I don’t run across too many of these even if they do make good bait or lure.

[Linked Image]

There's a lot of venom in a snake this size, and it's a long way to the nearest hospital.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Longbeard12

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 12:15 AM

That's a dandy of a rattlesnake!!

Posted By: the Blak Spot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 02:19 AM

Cool!
Big enough to eat!

Posted By: 8117 Steve R

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 09:34 AM

I am glad I don't have to put up with those critters. I wouldn't get far off the road if they were here.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 12:50 PM

This time of year we sure get to see the opportunistic side of yotes. Eating pears,apples etc. Tilled this up in the back yard to plant some flowers. First night it had yote tracks and crap in it. Same with a food plot I tilled behind that grass.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 12:56 PM

There is also hard lessons to be learned this time of year. With dispersal etc. This one learned don’t eat persimmons before dark. You don’t get a free pass no matter how pretty your jewelry is. Lol. Neighbor down the road likes his persimmons.

[Linked Image]

This one was lucky I wasn’t home. His future isn’t to bright. Cleaning up under the pear trees.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 02:13 PM

Thats a young of the year making the most from an opportunity. Coyotes love fruits of all kinds.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 07:20 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

This time of year we sure get to see the opportunistic side of yotes. Eating pears,apples etc.

Tilled this up in the back yard to plant some flowers. First night it had yote tracks and crap in it. Same with a food plot I tilled behind that grass.

You Betcha!

It seems that any alteration in terrain is always a major attraction for young and old alike.

Coyotes will seldom pass up newly plowed or disturbed soil around here.

The same goes for freshly shredded pastures or cut hay fields.

If a field is worked today coyotes will probably be on it that same night.

They patrol these freshly worked fields in the same fashion and for the same reasons the raptors do.

Just like the birds, they instinctively know that any disturbance of the landscape usually provides a food opportunity.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 10:06 PM

You need to start milking those snakes. There is a good market for making anti venom serum.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 10:20 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by yoteguts

This time of year we sure get to see the opportunistic side of yotes. Eating pears,apples etc.

Tilled this up in the back yard to plant some flowers. First night it had yote tracks and crap in it. Same with a food plot I tilled behind that grass.

You Betcha!

It seems that any alteration in terrain is always a major attraction for young and old alike.

Coyotes will seldom pass up newly plowed or disturbed soil around here.

The same goes for freshly shredded pastures or cut hay fields.

If a field is worked today coyotes will probably be on it that same night.

They patrol these freshly worked fields in the same fashion and for the same reasons the raptors do.

Just like the birds, they instinctively know that any disturbance of the landscape usually provides a food opportunity.

Controlled burns down here have the same effect.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/17/22 11:09 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

There is also hard lessons to be learned this time of year. With dispersal etc. This one learned don’t eat persimmons before dark. You don’t get a free pass no matter how pretty your jewelry is. Lol. Neighbor down the road likes his persimmons.

Yote, we have persimmons in limited supply here, but they don’t last long because everything that walks is after them.

I rode with a government trapper back in the 70’s, and he had whole persimmons preserved in glass jars like jelly or jam.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 12:14 AM

Cool tejas. They don’t last long here either. This yote was eating green persimmons. Can’t believe anything could handle those tart things. He was the third yote that had visited the tree that day.

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 12:53 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by yoteguts

This time of year we sure get to see the opportunistic side of yotes. Eating pears,apples etc.

Tilled this up in the back yard to plant some flowers. First night it had yote tracks and crap in it. Same with a food plot I tilled behind that grass.

You Betcha!

It seems that any alteration in terrain is always a major attraction for young and old alike.

Coyotes will seldom pass up newly plowed or disturbed soil around here.

The same goes for freshly shredded pastures or cut hay fields.

If a field is worked today coyotes will probably be on it that same night.

They patrol these freshly worked fields in the same fashion and for the same reasons the raptors do.

Just like the birds, they instinctively know that any disturbance of the landscape usually provides a food opportunity.

A couple weeks ago my wife and I were riding some back roads and a farmer was cutting hay. Went past him and not 100 yards behind him there was a yote sitting there looking for mice and voles. They hear the tractor and come running sometimes…..

Posted By: Longbeard12

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 01:27 PM

Red fox and coyotes are never afraid of the tractor. Making hay the other day this red got as close as 15 yards from us.

Attached picture IMG_20220918_091929_01.jpg

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Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 01:57 PM

Nice looking male. He will be a good one when it primes up.

Nothing like mowing and raking hay to get the voles runs all stirred up with the little buggers running about all confused for a while. Easy pickings. Turkeys will be there next.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 03:20 PM

Great photo Beard!

I’ve had quite a few coyotes work fields like that in the daytime while shredding or cutting hay.

The sound of that diesel is like a dinner bell.

Posted By: Kermit

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 03:48 PM

When you go electric they lose their bell

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 07:54 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

You need to start milking those snakes. There is a good market for making anti venom serum.

I got rattlesnakes-------can you milk them after you blow their head off ? LOL thats the only way I would want to handle them-----

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/18/22 08:15 PM

No I don't think that would work well.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/19/22 02:35 PM

Originally Posted by the Blak Spot

Cool!
Big enough to eat!

How do you prepare and cook yours Spot?

I season and fry just like fish.

The snake fillets are cut into small pieces and seasoned with cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and sometimes a little liquid teriyaki. Then they’re dipped in egg and dredged in seasoned cornmeal. The nuggets are flash fried at high temp and topped with some fresh squeezed lime.

It’s pretty good if not overcooked.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/19/22 03:04 PM

Recon is not limited to trail cams.

You can learn a lot more by watching a live performance.

The more coyotes you can draw at one time, the more interaction. That's when class is Really in session.

[Linked Image]

This photo was taken in late October around six pm.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/20/22 03:41 PM

The majority of coyotes here don’t belly up to the bar when they arrive at the bait. Most are very cautious and circle multiple times.

This adult was first on the scene. There were no other rivals in the area at that time.

He made multiple wide circles around the bait before committing.

I believe this same behavior also happens at sets more than we realize.

My guess is the set presentation or visual can have a lot to do with that

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/20/22 05:37 PM

Dang James, I figured you would have crosshairs on any that showed up in daylight

You have shared a lot of information/observations

Posted By: G Hose

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/21/22 12:05 AM

Help on this thread if you don’t mind.
Thanks

https://trapperman.com/forum/ubbthr...ter-wolfer-book-contact-info#Post6539909

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/21/22 02:32 PM

A few folks have asked if Mr. James Lucero’s Master Wolfer is still available.

The book is still available as are his lures.

Those interested can contact Mr. Lucero directly.

(575) 585 – 6314

Here is additional information.

JAMES LUCERO “MASTER WOLFER” Book – Contact Info

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/21/22 11:17 PM

Master wolfer changed the way I look at yotes. I got his book years ago. My catch probably doubled after that. Also had far fewer problem yotes. They died the first time.

On my bait camera I see lots of drive by sniffings when they first find the bait. Sometimes at a dead run but always at least trotting.

Mr Lucero is the man!!!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/23/22 02:24 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Master wolfer changed the way I look at yotes. I got his book years ago.

My catch probably doubled after that.

Also had far fewer problem yotes. They died the first time.

Mr Lucero is the man!!!

You Betcha!

A great book like Lucero’s Master Wolfer gets you to thinking about coyotes is a different light.

It also generates new ideas for those that read between the lines.

The magic is not so much in the sets; it is in the mindset and method.

The book certainly won’t make every reader a great trapper. That burden is on the individual.

It will give you the information that when applied correctly will get you on the right track to killing coyotes in numbers.

Folks that don’t have the book should seriously consider picking one up. Those that already have it in their library might benefit from reading through it again.

Posted By: Wolfdog91

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/12/22 04:20 AM

Hay TEJAS, if it's all good and dandy with you and everyone else I'm going to go ahead and archive this thread in the next 24hr since it's seem to have ran it's course

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/16/22 03:07 PM

Good Sunday Morning Coyote Crew!

Here is the first bait of the season.

It took exactly ten minutes from the time the first buzzard hit the ground for this pair of coyotes to arrive.

[Linked Image]

They know this pig won’t last long.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/16/22 07:08 PM

The black headed buzzards are still here in full force.

The thermals are not even up at 8:15 and they are already on the scene.

They will head South across the border in the coming weeks as the temps continue to drop.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/17/22 11:49 AM

These two coyotes stayed on the bait until 9 am. when I drove up to pull the cam card.

I see this same pattern repeated throughout the season.

I believe a lot of coyotes can be caught in the first hour or so of daylight if you can afford let your traps soak just a little longer before the morning check.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/17/22 01:29 PM

TEAJAS, I agree and have always preferred to let them soak for a bit before going out. Not that I'm a big numbers guy but think my success increases by holding off a bit when I can.

Posted By: Longbeard12

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/17/22 06:34 PM

That's pretty crazy how fast they got on that!! I am assuming all the comotion had the coyotes alerted to food in the area?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/18/22 10:13 AM

Originally Posted by 20scout

TEJAS, I agree and have always preferred to let them soak for a bit before going out.

Not that I'm a big numbers guy but think my success increases by holding off a bit when I can.

Scout, I’ve snuck up on a few gang sets that had multiple coyotes caught and several more milling around just outside the catch circle.

And yes, there were there other sets there ready to greet them.

I snapped a few photos of this happening a few years back. If I happen to come across the pictures I’ll post them up.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/18/22 12:31 PM

Originally Posted by Longbeard12

That's pretty crazy how fast they got on that!!

I am assuming all the commotion had the coyotes alerted to food in the area?

You Betcha’ Beard!

When it comes to attractants it’s hard to beat the pulling power of a big group of birds working a carcass.

It’s like ringing the dinner bell. The sound of birds also creates a sense of urgency.

I believe that the coyotes here are well aware that they need to get to the carcass as soon as possible if they want a piece of the pie.

To illustrate that point here is what’s left after less than twelve hours with the aerial cleanup crew.

[Linked Image]

The big sow weighed between 160-70 pounds.

The rear legs, pelvis, skull and jaw are all that remain along with the hide.

Not one ounce of flesh was left on the remaining bones.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/18/22 04:58 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by 20scout

TEJAS, I agree and have always preferred to let them soak for a bit before going out.

Not that I'm a big numbers guy but think my success increases by holding off a bit when I can.

Scout, I’ve snuck up on a few gang sets that had multiple coyotes caught and several more milling around just outside the catch circle.

And yes, there were there other sets there ready to greet them.

I snapped a few photos of this happening a few years back. If I happen to come across the pictures I’ll post them up.

I would love to see them photos TEJAS!

Posted By: Longbeard12

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/18/22 11:41 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Longbeard12

That's pretty crazy how fast they got on that!!

I am assuming all the commotion had the coyotes alerted to food in the area?

You Betcha’ Beard!

When it comes to attractants it’s hard to beat the pulling power of a big group of birds working a carcass.

It’s like ringing the dinner bell. The sound of birds also creates a sense of urgency.

I believe that the coyotes here are well aware that they need to get to the carcass as soon as possible if they want a piece of the pie.

To illustrate that point here is what’s left after less than twelve hours with the aerial cleanup crew.

[Linked Image]

The big sow weighed between 160-70 pounds.

The rear legs, pelvis, skull and jaw are all that remain along with the hide.

Not one ounce of flesh was left on the remaining bones.

That is absolutely crazy!!! I don't think I have ever seen something picked clean like that in that short of time!! Really appreciate the response!! That was very interesting. Thanks

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/19/22 01:33 AM

And I got a hog I shot 3 weeks ago still with the skin and hair slowly decomposing, lol. Different parts of the country I guess. Buzzards don’t even like some of our hogs and coyotes would eat grass before eating one.
Throw a deer carcass out and it’s cleaned like that in hours. I’ve shot a deer went and looked at it, walked about 300-400 yards to the truck and by the time I drove back not only were buzzards circling, some were already in the trees above it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/19/22 05:04 PM

Originally Posted by 20scout

Scout, I’ve snuck up on a few gang sets that had multiple coyotes caught and several more milling around just outside the catch circle.
I snapped a few photos of this happening a few years back. If I happen to come across the pictures I’ll post them up.

Originally Posted by 20scout

I would love to see those photos TEJAS!

Here ya' go Scout!

This is one of three coyotes caught on a 50 yard stretch of sendero on the same night.

I saw three different coyotes milling around where the other three were caught in just a matter of minutes.

The caught coyote is in the foreground with an adult still at large in the back.

[Linked Image]

This is the same sequence with a different coyote standing within a foot of the caught canine.

[Linked Image]

These photos were taken late November 2020 at nine o’clock in the morning.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/19/22 05:09 PM

That's interesting! It's not uncommon for me to pick up pictures of them on my cameras mid morning. Not that I'm not an early riser but just hate to chase off my prey at the last minute when I've worked hard to catch them. Great pictures!

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/19/22 05:19 PM

Seems I posted something way back about my catch rate increasing when I started checking after daylight and was told time of day had nothing to do with it…by most on here. Guess it all depends on who says it, lol.

Posted By: MartinT

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/19/22 07:30 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Seems I posted something way back about my catch rate increasing when I started checking after daylight and was told time of day had nothing to do with it…by most on here. Guess it all depends on who says it, lol.

I have caught 2 coyotes after a 4am check (prior to going to work).

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/19/22 08:00 PM

I know for a fact I’ve run coyotes off when checking way before daylight. Every time, I got excited seeing eyes at the set only to see them run off and immediately start doubting my sets or actual traps. Every time I’ve apparently rode up on them checking out the set instead of being in the set!
I check in the AM and go back after work to reset and have critters in the sets. Even had a manager call me one morning 2 hours after daylight asking if I missed one cause he’s sitting looking at a coyote in a trap. He was on the tractor and saw it standing there and was about to shoot when he saw it lunge and realized it was caught.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/20/22 10:31 PM

I've touched on this before, but it warrants another look.

When trappers get a deep paw catch many think the coyote was really committed to the set.

I believe the exact opposite is actually happening in many cases. I think it's because they are wary of the offering, and are crawling up to the attractant.

You can easily see how this could happen when the coyote has his front legs parallel to the ground while belly crawling.

This could also account for the occasional elbow catch as well. It seems to be a more likely culprit than the roll.

This occurs most often with new objects or baits. The same can apply to smells and visuals you might use at your sets.

[Linked Image]

Some might think the coyote is getting lower just to gain access to the pig.

I don’t believe that is the case because they do the same thing when in front of a skinned carcass.

[Linked Image]

This is not an isolated incident. I see this behavior over and over again.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/22 12:01 AM

So you’re saying you think they crawl to a dirt hole, pipe, or flat set? That’s where all my deep of catches come from. I know of NO one that sets a trap that close to a carcass without catching a buzzard.
I could see maybe crawling to a carcass, but my trail cam pics of catches show them upright and walking when caught in the above mentioned sets. That goes for bobcats and fox as well.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/22 12:16 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

So you’re saying you think they crawl to a dirt hole, pipe, or flat set?

I know they will WB.

I’m saying that there are times where they will crawl up to anything that they are really apprehensive of.

That includes a set of any kind. Avoidance can occur with any attractant whether visual or olfactory.

Even a familiar sight, smell, or fresh bait new to the scene can cause this.

I believe this happens more that we realize, and accounts for some of the deep leg and elbow catches.

When I say deep paw/leg catch, I don’t mean paw flat on the pan. The paw is past the pan to the frame or beyond. The leg is usually parallel to the jaws of the trap. I saw a trapper post a photo that fit this description last season. His set was made on a fence line where the coyote had to crawl under on his belly to get caught.

I've seen where a coyote crawled up to a flat set from multiple angles. He walked away from the set on that particular day.

Coyotes might not illustrate that kind of behavior where they don’t get a lot of pressure. Then again it might be pure instinct that makes them creep up to something they are extremely wary of.

In the past I've had trappers in high pressure areas tell me they had coyotes crawl on their sets as well.

Posted By: garymc

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/22 02:38 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I’m saying that there are times where they will crawl up to anything that they are really apprehensive of.

I have been fortunate to have witnessed this a few times in Maine while bear hunting over bait. I had two different coyotes come in to one bait site and they would slowly crawl up to the bait barrel. Often aborting several times before actually committing to the barrel. I had never experienced this before and questioned the camp skinner who was also an accomplished trapper in the area. He stated the same thing as Tejas about taking that approach to anything they are apprehensive of.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/22 02:44 PM

Yotes have a relationship with crows here big time. I’ve been driving a grain cart for a month now during harvest and have seen some pretty interesting yote behavior. Took some pics and videos. Soon as I get some time I’ll post them here. They definitely know what a combine is and how to work the fields. Seen at least a dozen rabbits caught.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/22 09:42 PM

Ok, gotcha now. Yes I have had a couple catches where it looked like their foot had “slipped” through almost where it was caught WAY above the pad. Dummy me thought it was almost like a delayed fire for some reason and he had almost like slipped on the pan. Makes sense now, lol.

Posted By: Longbeard12

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/22 12:02 AM

Tejas, as far as trap placement, how do place your trap as far as levers go? Levers pointed towards the bait/lure or the other way? Not sure what traps your running but for most guys loose jaw away from bait/lure? Just curious if if you think it matters?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/22 05:36 PM

Originally Posted by Longbeard12

Tejas, as far as trap placement, how do place your trap as far as levers go? Levers pointed towards the bait/lure or the other way? Not sure what traps your running but for most guys loose jaw away from bait/lure? Just curious if if you think it matters?

MB 550 OS is what I use.

I’m put the levers at three and nine, with the dog at twelve facing the attractant.

I don’t like the levers at twelve and six because I feel there might be a better chance of a coyote stepping on the very end of the lever dislodging the trap from its bed.

Another reason for that trap position is I do not get a lot of three and nine o’clock approaches. That is where I want the levers to be.

I don’t think it really matters which way the trap faces as far as diggers are concerned. They will jack the set up regardless of position.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/23/22 01:48 AM

Difference between GA coyotes/buzzards and yours. Shot this pig Sept 29, 2022…pic was taken this afternoon on the way in hunting. I’ve caught coyote/fox/cats within 50 yards of where I dropped this pig, lol.
[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/23/22 01:50 AM

It’ll eventually rot away to nothing I hope. Quail season starts in a few weeks and if it ain’t gone by then, then we’ll have to cover it to keep the dogs out of it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/23/22 08:19 PM

Here's one way to keep a coyote busy.

It's the trapping version of “Rope-A- Dope”.

Here comes an unsuspecting victim looking to snatch a midday snack.

[Linked Image]

The time is 11 o’clock on a cloudless day.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/23/22 08:22 PM

He found out there's no free lunch.

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/23/22 11:49 PM

Good stuff Tejas ! I was thinking of making a few deer hide sets like that.

Also I had a question for you. On a set day how many sets can you put in comfortably ? At this point I don’t know if I’m slow or not lol !

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/22 10:06 AM

Originally Posted by Sharkhunter

Good stuff Tejas !

On a set day how many sets can you put in comfortably ? At this point I don’t know if I’m slow or not lol !

I wouldn’t worry so much about how many traps you can get out in a day.

I would focus on getting good sets out on location.

When you are on the sign take that extra minute to pinpoint exactly where you want your set.

Make that set stand out from a location standpoint before you think about the visual aspect of the presentation.

It can make a huge difference in your catch.

You can do a lot of damage with as few as two or three dozen traps if they are set in the right location.

Mr. Lucero has told me time and time again you don’t need to set a lot of traps to catch coyotes in numbers if your sets are good and in the right place.

You can take that advice to the bank.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/22 10:14 AM

Here is the low crawl posture again.

This coyote is spring-loaded to the rear ready to jump back.

[Linked Image]

The bait is a fresh deer pelvis.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/22 11:16 AM

This coyote spent a lot more time on the ground working the bait than she did standing up in front of it.

This might be something to keep in mind if you are thinking about using exposed bait.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: KB64

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/22 01:39 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Difference between GA coyotes/buzzards and yours. Shot this pig Sept 29, 2022…pic was taken this afternoon on the way in hunting. I’ve caught coyote/fox/cats within 50 yards of where I dropped this pig, lol.
[Linked Image]

Do you split the hide on the hogs ? I've found that splitting the hide with a utility knife from the neck to base of the tail really helps the scavengers clean up the carcass. I've had 150 lb sows cleaned up to just the skeleton in 48 hours.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/22 01:45 PM

I generally split the underside all the way down. Figure that would get the odor out there. I was thinking that otherwise they might just think it was laying down sleeping, lol. Thought the smell of blood and guts might entice something. Plus the fact I drug it a good 400 yards down a road to a more open area would leave a scent trail for anything that crossed its path.
Coyotes are coyotes, until they aren’t.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/25/22 10:50 AM

This coyote spent a lot more time on the ground working the bait than she did standing up in front of it.

You might keep this in mind if you're using a small exposed bait.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/25/22 09:35 PM

Here's a photo from this morning less than half an hour after daylight.

[Linked Image]

The ground crew is late to the party and runs off the unwanted guests.

[Linked Image]

Breakfast is served

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/22 10:40 AM

You know there are new coyotes on the scene when you see this.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/22 11:20 AM

The bait is finally starting to roll a little bit.

Six coyotes at 8:30 am is a good start for not much soak time.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/22 12:39 PM

"You know there are new coyotes on the scene when you see this."
Tej would you comment just a little more about this.
Again, good stuff, thanks.

Looking back to see... ?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/22 03:18 PM

Originally Posted by Wright Brothers

"You know there are new coyotes on the scene when you see this."

Tejas, would you comment just a little more about this? Looking back to see.?

Again, good stuff, thanks.

WB, when there are new coyotes on the scene I see a lot of conflict.

The coyote is bowed up showing his teeth and standing his ground ready to defend the bait.

This station only had two of three visitors at one time in the last few days. That number jumped to six overnight.

There will be a good deal of fighting around the bait in the coming days as coyote numbers increase.

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/22 04:26 PM

I now get what you are saying.

On large kills like that I traditionally did better on the approaches.
Many times further back than some may believe.
I theorize they were less on edge, and, what you just showed.
A continued dead cattle dump comes to mind.
And, a location where differing groups all mark. <- you, er no, I can smell
them but not catch em there.

This may be a good time for the poster that coined the phrase,
stall out location.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/28/22 01:20 PM

The survival instinct of a coyote is second to none.

Here is a new arrival with a little hitch in her get along.

I've noticed that coyotes with an injury will often avoid others because they're not at full power.

This girl did a lot of looking over her shoulder while on the bait.

She stocks up on groceries while the pantry is full and there are no other rivals around.

[Linked Image]

This particular gal was seen one time late last season while in the deer stand.

I'll have to dig deep into the magic bag of tricks to reel this one in.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/29/22 02:27 PM

I see the Coyote Crawl almost every single day.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/29/22 03:08 PM

I’d imagine that fact that it wasn’t there last time, and a pole through the bait, and the bait on a chain or rope would make them nervous, lol.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/29/22 04:44 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

I’d imagine that fact that it wasn’t there last time, and a pole through the bait, and the bait on a chain or rope would make them nervous, lol.

WB, I think that part of it could be the natural posture of slinking in to steal away with the meat.

Both pieces of carne are secured to a chain and post that has been there for years.

On this day they didn’t do that with the big bait they couldn’t run off with. The previous photo of the pair of coyotes standing at the station together did the same thing.

As mentioned earlier, the familiar but new attractant could certainly be part of the cause. The same could apply to any new set or presentation.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/29/22 11:19 PM

The same coyote from the above photo hit the small bait over and over again until he finally snagged the prize.

I believe this illustrates why it would be much more difficult to pinpoint trap placement on a set with a grab and die or any other toy-type set placed on the surface. Even when staked down or on a short tether you will get basically the same response.

The coyote's snatch and run approach when working a tied down food attractant is a lot different from the milling around at a flat set, or digging at a dirt hole.

[Linked Image]

A traditional downwind trap set would have missed this coyote on every approach he made.

Every run he took was from the upwind side of the bait on the same line of travel.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/30/22 02:49 PM

The coyotes get the big pigs, the gringos get the piglets.

Skin

[Linked Image]

Season

Smoke

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/31/22 01:58 PM

Dang Tejas that looks GOOOOOD!

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/31/22 03:13 PM

Yummy!!!
This years hard chargers are already showing up at the kill window. 15-18’. Nov 10th isn’t very far away.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/31/22 06:07 PM

Hammer time is approaching Rob!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/03/22 10:59 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

This year’s hard chargers are already showing up at the kill window. 15-18’. Nov 10th isn’t very far away.

Originally Posted by MChewk

Hammer time is approaching Rob!

It sure is MC!

We could use some cooler temps here.

We've been real busy in the last few weeks.

Just finished up planting winter wheat yesterday.

Hopefully the coyotes will be rolling by the end of November.

I need to get caught up on posting some photos.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/05/22 10:42 PM

The coyotes here will usually test a fresh bait over and over to see if they can snag the snack.

[Linked Image]

They wise up after multiple pulls and go to eating what they can’t run off with.

[Linked Image]

Some are persistent enough to finally break the wire holding the prize.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/06/22 01:25 AM

Tejas I use deer for bait. Every time I put a fresh one out the local deer visit the carcass for about 2 nights. Get bucks during the rut but usually does. This bait has had 11 deer on it in two nights.
Do you see anything like this with hogs? This one is at 10 yards.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/06/22 04:49 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Tejas I use deer for bait. Every time I put a fresh one out the local deer visit the carcass for about 2 nights.
Get bucks during the rut but usually does. This bait has had 11 deer on it in two nights.
Do you see anything like this with hogs? This one is at 10 yards.

Yote, I have not seen a buck or doe walk up to a fresh deer or pig carcass up to this point.

A hog will make an occasional drive-by, but that’s about it.

I hear folks mention all the non-targets a bait station will attract, but I have not encountered that problem here.

I’ve yet to see a single coon, fox, or badger working any bait site. A skunk will stroll by on occasion.

When coyotes are dominating a location, everything else steers clear of the area except for the Buzzard, Vulture, and Cara Cara.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/06/22 05:08 PM

Makes one wonder what controls the predatory/ scavenger birds you mentioned?
Here everything eats on a carcass/roadkill...from birds to rodents to the mammals.
The grab and pull bait systems really show merit on the carcass pics.... focus is on
what's in the mouth not so much where the paws are.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/06/22 11:19 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

Makes one wonder what controls the predatory/ scavenger birds you mentioned?

This far South weather controls the buzzards & vultures to some extent.

They migrate to Mexico for the winter just like the butterflies and hummingbirds do.

When the temps drop and the Northern wind picks up they head for the border.

The buzzard migration was constant up until October 29th.

[Linked Image]

By November 1st their numbers dropped off to nothing in just a couple of days.

[Linked Image]

All that is left now are the birds bringing up the tail end of the migration.

The Cara Cara and Harris's Hawk will remain here through the winter.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/07/22 01:35 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

The grab and pull bait systems really show merit on the carcass pics....
focus is on what's in the mouth not so much where the paws are.

Good observation MC.

The grab and pull gets a good bit of play, but determining the angle of approach seems to be the X factor with that type of set.

It also illustrates where the front feet end up in relation to the nose when crawling up to the bait.

This was the main purpose of showing all of the crawl photos.

I usually crowd the attractant for all it is worth. In this instance setting the pan farther back looks like the ticket.

[Linked Image]

Figuring out what side they will sneak up on is a roll of the dice.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/09/22 11:10 PM

Opens tomorrow. He he he. 8 yards while I watched.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/09/22 11:39 PM

Hammer 'em Rob! I'm like a little kid tonight. Lunch already, made got my thermos ready for coffee in the am, truck is loaded. First time in 36 years I won't have to watch a clock.
Got some beaver to catch that will help pay gas weather looks nice for tomorrow but heard rain for the next day.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/10/22 12:24 PM

Good Luck today and for the rest of the season Yote!

I hope you beat your previous record.

MC, congratulations on a well earned retirement sir!

May your aches and pains be few and your catches be many!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/11/22 01:07 PM

Coyotes and whitetails go hand in hand.

Here are a couple of fence jumpers caught in the act.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/22 07:35 PM

This big bobcat strolls by the bait on occasion.

He has put on some size since last fall.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/22 12:49 AM

Nice pics Tejas!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/22 02:04 PM

Thanks MC!

I need to get back to taking more deer photos along with the coyote stuff.

This shows you how warm temps can stay this far South.

Our last cold front pushed them into Mexico.

[Linked Image]

Deer and coyote activity should start to pick up from here on out.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/16/22 04:05 PM

Here is a question for the T-Man Coyote Crew.

What do you think are the key natural elements in determining coyote movement?

Is it just one primary factor, or the combination of several?

Is there one aspect that has more influence than all the others?

I would like to hear your thoughts and observations on the subject.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/16/22 04:33 PM

It would be a combination. The top three would be water, food, and a weather front.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/16/22 05:30 PM

Like any other critter, hunger or hormones would be the basis, followed by weather and/or past experience(s).

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/16/22 07:48 PM

A lot of folks seem to put a good deal of stock in the moon phases when it comes to coyote activity

I haven’t noticed a lot of difference between new and full moon catch or bait station numbers.

Does anyone notice a significant increase in catch numbers during a new moon?

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/16/22 08:25 PM

Here on the open plains you will notice a big difference. Catch rate drops off dramatically during a full moon.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/16/22 10:37 PM

I videoed my only catch of a coyote on a full moon just to remind myself it can be done. For the most part, coyotes come on dark night. Cats however, seem to come better on bright nights.
Again, while coyotes may be coyotes, I believe they all act different in different geographical areas. But that could lead back to density of the population.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/22 12:57 AM

I hve been seeing a lot of movement on my game camera the last couple of days. Moon is neither full nor dark.

Plan is to get some steel in the dirt this weekend and try and catch a few.

I think the cooler temps have the ones here using more calories and hustling to find more?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/22 11:50 AM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Here on the open plains you will notice a big difference. Catch rate drops off dramatically during a full moon.

I bet visibility across the open plain on a moonlit night is a lot better than most other terrain.

What do you think causes your catch to decline?

Could it be because prey animals can see better so hunting conditions are not as good?

Maybe the added light makes the coyote more on edge, or perhaps he can see the ground better and is a little more cautious.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/22 12:49 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

I've been seeing a lot of movement on my game camera the last couple of days. The moon is neither full nor dark.

I think the cooler temps have the ones here using more calories and hustling to find more grub.

I agree BT.

Over the years I’ve noticed a definite trend here that supports what you’re saying.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/22 01:25 PM

Could it be because prey animals can see better so hunting conditions are not as good?

That’s basically what I’ve read and heard from those more senior than I. It’s not to say coyotes don’t hunt or eat, it’s just they don’t roam far wasting energy. I’ve read/heard they just stick closer to their home area. Sorta equate it to a warmer wetter night you can about guarantee a line full of possums, lol.
Down here a below normal cold night (especially with wind) and you can just say there’s always tomorrow. I used to think my line would be full, actually it’s just the opposite.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/23/22 04:36 PM

Activity is starting to ramp up a bit down South Texas way.

Ten coyotes can make short work of a 250 pound boar. The hard part is getting past the armor.

This marrano had huge cutters so he was caped out for a mount. That was just fine with the cleanup crew.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/25/22 12:22 PM

The old boar had a few friends stop by for the holidays.

The three together weigh in around 700 pounds.

These big pigs work well because the birds can’t deplete them during the daylight hours.

[Linked Image]

It won’t take long for word to get around that the buffet has been restocked.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/26/22 02:13 AM

The bait station is finally starting to roll.

Eight coyotes still remain on the bait at 8:30 even after an all-night vigil.

[Linked Image]

Keep in mind the vast majority of these coyotes are not locals.

This shows just how effective a good bait can be when everything comes together.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/26/22 02:27 AM

You have a never ending supply of coyotes James

Bet it won't be long and we will be seeing some caught ones

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/26/22 03:30 AM

So my question is this…

How do you set up on the coyotes after the bait starts getting hit hard?
How far from bait are your sets?
What is your setting strategy?
Traps on trails and snares in fences?
Flat sets or hole sets?
Lures and or baits?
Drags or anchors?

I’ve ready through the thread, but if you covered this stuff, I missed it. Thanks.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/26/22 11:55 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Bet it won't be long and we will be seeing some caught ones.

You would be correct Sir!

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/27/22 12:52 AM

Ok. No problem. I get it. That is what separates the men from the boys. I love your posts. Trap on!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/27/22 02:11 AM

Originally Posted by Centex Trapper

Ok. No problem. I get it. That is what separates the men from the boys. I love your posts. Trap on!

Hey Centex!

I apologize for the delayed response. We’ve been real busy around here .I planned on answering your questions.

It’s good to see folks putting some thought into what has been posted.

I will try to do the same with my responses.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/27/22 05:20 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

You have a never ending supply of coyotes.

At first glance it certainly appears that way BT.

In reality, it’s a poor example of coyote density for the area. What it does illustrate is the raw pulling power of a good bait station.

Sure, we have a healthy population of canines, but the pictures posted here are not representative of how many coyotes per square mile are in the area.

It’s a concentration of coyotes drawn from a large expanse of acreage over time.

Photos like the one above would lead some trappers to believe that there's a coyote behind every bush, and trapping here is a cake walk.

The pressure that is applied to this ranch from both ground and air insures that neither are the case.

Folks that can see past the numbers and read between the lines will gain the most from the information presented here.

Once again, it’s important to note that the vast majority of coyotes in the photos don’t actually live here.

The bait brought them here. That is where the real magic lies.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/27/22 07:36 PM

Ok, now I’m curious.
You trap this ranch, paid I’m assuming, to catch coyotes.
You catch the uneducated coyotes, then move on to the educated coyotes.
Once you’ve accomplished that, you’ve reached your goal of eliminating the majority of the coyotes.
So you hang up the traps and now you set out bait to draw in more coyotes on the ranch?
That’s the part I’m curious about. Why?
Why would you intentionally draw in more predators if the goal is to reduce the predators to as low of numbers as you can get?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 03:25 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Why would you intentionally draw in more predators if the goal is to reduce the predators to as low of numbers as you can get?

Does any of the T-Man Crew have an answer to WB’s question?

I would be interested to hear your responses.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 04:11 AM

I’ll give you mine…when I leave a property I want as few critter left as I can leave. That’s the whole purpose of me trapping the properties. I’d probably be shot on sight if I was trying to bring more in. Even though it cost me money in the long run, I’d rather have fewer critters and more game each time I hit the property. I’d think natural travel is enough to deal with. I’m already amazed at how many can filter back in during a 2-3 month layoff, lol.

Posted By: Wright Brothers

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 11:11 AM

"I would be interested to hear your responses."

Jump start the "filter back into habitat" so he can get on with the task.

Right or wrong, black or white, it's perpetual and we are not there to see all, or "think" we see all.

At any rate, enjoying the read thanks.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 12:35 PM

I am going to guess the neighbors don't spend much on trapping coyotes on their places so he is drawing their coyotes in to knock down a wider area population. Can't trap on them so pull their coyotes to him.

I don't remember how big his place is, but say it was a square mile (I know it is considerably bigger than that) and everyone around owned a square mile. If he could pull coyotes off of all the neighbors he would be trapping more like 9 square miles.

Just a WAG but makes sense to me this early with no coffee yet

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 02:50 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Why would you intentionally draw in more predators if the goal is to reduce the predators to as low of numbers as you can get?

Trapping coyotes is a war of attrition.

The bait is ground zero. The area the coyotes call home is the blast zone.

When I kill the local coyotes, the blast zone only reaches a short distance. That void is filled by coyotes on the perimeter.

Those contestants are also pulled in by the bait and killed. That makes the void area even larger.

Wile E. sends in reinforcements to fill in the vacated area from even farther out and they also become casualties.

The blast zone continues to widen with every wave of coyotes that fill in behind the previous group.

This extended void creates a large buffer around the ranch that takes a lot longer to fill back in.

That helps insure that the post rut bucks and upcoming fawn crop have a much better chance of survival.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 04:26 PM

So no one around traps?
And instead of setting the whole ranch, you just set the interior?
How are coyotes getting educated then? I wouldn’t think a bait with a stake through it and chained off would be anything natural that any coyote would ever see whether they are new or educated.
Guess it’s this “educated” term that throws me off.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 07:19 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

So no one around traps?

And instead of setting the whole ranch, you just set the interior?

Ranches in the area trap, snare, and gun.

Unfortunately, that leaves a glut of coyotes that others let get away using all three methods.

Cleaning up coyotes other folks leave behind is just part of the game.

The coyote line is constantly changing. To stay effective, trapping strategy should mirror that change.

I trap where the coyotes are at that particular point and time. That could be at the bait, on the road, at a windfall carcass, or all three.

A key location can turn into a ghost town overnight and vice versa. You have to have stay current on your recon to keep one step ahead of Wile E.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 08:00 PM

How big is the ranch you trap?
If those aren’t “local” coyotes then that bait has some serious drawing power, unless you’re baiting the edge of the property.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 10:10 PM

At a dead feral hog here in SE Georgia you will NOT even find a coyote track. Heck buzzards don't even eat em.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 10:10 PM

Even with knocking the coyotes down you have a serious number of coyotes. Here in this timber country, where there is very minimal trapping for them, and the only ones shot are the rare targets of opportunity that deer hunters and random people shoot, you never see that concentration of coyotes. Even on big baits like you are putting out. Wolf trappers put out big baits like that, and the coyotes hit them a lot more than wolves, but I've never seen them hit them in those numbers.

Now get into the breaks and open country and the coyote densities will be higher, but I've not known anyone to put out big baits in that type of country to know what kind of responses they get.

Posted By: AirportTrapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 10:47 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

At a dead feral hog here in SE Georgia you will NOT even find a coyote track. Heck buzzards don't even eat em.

That's what I have seen here. Stack them up and nothing touches them.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 10:47 PM

Yeah, the hog I posted a pic of a month ago that was killed in early September is still there, or was, lol. We finally had to cover it before quail hunting that course.
It’s crazy how the same critter can act completely different based on geography.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/22 11:15 PM

I talked to a guy that has a coyote pen about this and he told me if he dropped off whole hog they will not touch them like said, but if they were gutted or the carcass then they would eat them. It puzzles me too.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 01:13 AM

There is not much left of the 900 plus pound holiday hog dinner.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 02:52 AM

They certainly eat hogs here.
I have pics of them guarding a hog carcass from buzzards

Posted By: Centex Trapper

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 03:29 AM

I have noticed that coyotes seem to shy away from hogs here in Central Texas. But they love deer and jackrabbits. Different dogs with different tastes.

The point is to take what Tejas is doing and see if it might work in your area. Maybe different animal at the bait sight. Maybe smaller, maybe bigger bait pile. Adjust it to your trapping area and your target species. It is similar to way the Canadians have been doing for years with snares around bait sights. Tejas adapted it and made it work in South Texas.

Remember that this is control work, not fur trapping. This is population reduction so his livestock and wildlife has a chance survive. In South Texas, if you don’t control the coyotes, your livestock and wildlife will suffer in a big way.

I applaud Tejas for putting this information out so we can all learn from it. Thanks Tejas!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 12:06 PM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

If those aren’t “local” coyotes then that bait has some serious drawing power, unless you’re baiting the edge of the property.

I am confident in saying most are not locals. I know this from the constant recon on the site.

The bait is nowhere near the perimeter. The last thing I want is a coyote popping in to get a snack, and right back out to a safe zone.

Some do exactly that regardless of where the station is. Those are usually the ones that survive the longest.

My goal is to keep them on the ranch until it is their final resting place.

The bait has serious drawing power on its own merit, but there are several other factors that really boost activity at the station.

Some of those things are within your control, and some are not.

Posted By: paloduro

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 12:59 PM

Why are you not snaring them as they enter the ranch? You would still be using your bait station to draw them, but reducing the risk of them killing deer on the ranch.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 01:33 PM

Originally Posted by paloduro

Why are you not snaring them as they enter the ranch?

You would still be using your bait station to draw them, but reducing the risk of them killing deer on the ranch.

Good Question PD.

The reason I don’t is because we have a huge population of javelina.

Thirty of forty head might pass through a single crawl twice a day before the first coyote goes under.

Then you have the feral pigs to deal with as well.

In this particular situation it is much more efficient to use footholds and stay well away from the perimeter.

Posted By: paloduro

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 01:41 PM

You have a good gig going there, if they will pay you for feeding coyotes for 6 weeks. The ranches I trap usually want 10 days to 3 weeks depending on the size of the ranch.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 02:26 PM

Originally Posted by paloduro

You have a good gig going there, if they will pay you for feeding coyotes for 6 weeks.

The ranches I trap usually want 10 days to 3 weeks depending on the size of the ranch.

As you know, this is not contract trapping Palo.

Baiting coyotes allows me to kill a lot more of them in the end. That works for the ranch owner.

We take a good number of deer every season. That leaves us with a surplus of carcasses.

I put that surplus to good use and kill coyotes. I’ll set the bait when time permits.

Most here would agree, anyone that gets to trap coyotes has a good gig.

Posted By: paloduro

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 03:28 PM

I assumed it was contract trapping, most places won’t pay for full time trappers. Usually large sheep ranches are the only ones willing to pay. Congratulations on a good gig and yes we all have a good gig if we get to trap coyotes. Some gigs are better than others, looks like you have a good one.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/22 06:34 PM

Thanks Palo Duro!

I really enjoy the Brush Country and all it has to offer.

The abundance of game of all types never ceases to amaze me even after all these years.

Seeing those big mature bucks never gets old. The same goes for those old coyotes.

It is the best of both worlds in my book.

As I get older I’ve found even more appreciation for the simpler things in life. Coyote trapping is certainly at the top of that list.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/30/22 12:00 AM

Originally Posted by bearcat2

Even with knocking the coyotes down you have a serious number of coyotes. Here in this timber country, where there is very minimal trapping for them, and the only ones shot are the rare targets of opportunity that deer hunters and random people shoot, you never see that concentration of coyotes. Even on big baits like you are putting out. Wolf trappers put out big baits like that, and the coyotes hit them a lot more than wolves, but I've never seen them hit them in those numbers.

Now get into the breaks and open country and the coyote densities will be higher, but I've not known anyone to put out big baits in that type of country to know what kind of responses they get.

Bearcat, you think there would be a point of diminishing returns on the numbers after a certain amount of time.

Up until now they have managed to bounce back to a certain extent by the time fall rolls around.

What I have noticed is an overall decrease in certain classes of the coyote population.

The abundance of grub that is available in the brush country can sustain a lot of coyotes..

I think that is what allows them to partially rebound year after year.

They just send in more reinforcements.

One thing for certain. The home team doesn't have the depth it once did.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/30/22 02:19 PM

Originally Posted by Centex Trapper

I have noticed that coyotes seem to shy away from hogs here in Central Texas. But they love deer and jackrabbits. Different dogs with different tastes.

The point is to take what Tejas is doing and see if it might work in your area. Maybe different animal at the bait sight. Maybe smaller, maybe bigger bait pile. Adjust it to your trapping area and your target species. It is similar to way the Canadians have been doing for years with snares around bait sights. Tejas adapted it and made it work in South Texas.

Remember that this is control work, not fur trapping. This is population reduction so his livestock and wildlife has a chance survive. In South Texas, if you don’t control the coyotes, your livestock and wildlife will suffer in a big way.

I applaud Tejas for putting this information out so we can all learn from it. Thanks Tejas!

Here's a trapper that gets it !

If this didn’t work extremely well I wouldn’t bother with it. Any method that ups the catch numbers the way this does is an effective tool I will take advantage of.

You don’t see trappers passing up a dead cow in a pasture. Why? Because it is an effective means of catching more coyotes.

An established bone yard on a ranch or feedlot is targeted for the same exact reason.

It’s probably a safe bet to say most working ranches have a dead pit. The bait station is just a bone yard where the coyotes can’t haul off with the goods.

Some might think that pulling in coyotes to the area would have a negative impact the deer herd.

Deer mortality is extremely low at this time of year around here. They are in top shape and it shows. Fawns of the year can easily elude Wile E. Coyotes pose no real threat to a healthy deer in peak condition.

The only time coyotes are a serious concern is when the herd is vulnerable. Fawn drop, fighting injuries, and/or post rut rundown are when we see the most mayhem.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/30/22 02:30 PM

So how many coyotes have you taken off this ranch this year vs previous years with/without bait?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/22 02:58 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

So how many coyotes have you taken off this ranch this year vs previous years with/without bait?

I picked up somewhere around fifty at the first of the year. That was when the rut was on and they were not hitting the bait.

The vast majority of those were caught running the road.

The year before one bait station produced over fifty by itself.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/02/22 08:49 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

So how many coyotes have you taken off this ranch this year vs previous years with/without bait?

I picked up somewhere around fifty at the first of the year. That was when the rut was on and they were not hitting the bait.

The vast majority of those were caught running the road.

The year before one bait station produced over fifty by itself.

How big is this ranch Tejas?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/08/22 03:21 PM

It’s the busy time of year down here on the border.

There hasn’t been much time for internet surfing.

We’ve killed some heavy hogs this season, but this big fella should hold the ranch record for some time.

Three hundred pound pigs are few and far between.

This old boar weighed in well over 400 pounds.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/22 03:23 AM

Man that’s a lot of bad attitude pork right there.
Pretty slow here between a train hit buck right by my place and the thermal guys cruising my bait. I did get a couple visitors to the yoteguts all you can eat buffet. Killed another with my single six at 8 yards out the kill window.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/22 03:31 AM

Got out and shot me a couple of meat deer. One had some pretty jewelry on her.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/22 01:37 PM

Nice going Rob! Coyote catch here is off...having fun trapping beaver and getting paid along with setting up traplines on the same properties.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/22 10:16 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Man, that’s a lot of bad attitude pork right there.

You Betcha!

That old boar was on another level of big and bad.

He absorbed several 300 + grain slugs and still managed to leave the area.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/14/22 03:37 PM

The rut is well underway here.

Our primary focus is on deer.for the moment.

The coyotes have been granted a temporary stay of execution the time being.

This older buck knows how to intimidate the younger deer.

[Linked Image]

An aggressive stiff-legged walk with ears back with a bristled coat shows he means business.

The old stink eye tops off the look.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/17/22 06:13 PM

Here are a few more photos taken while in the stand.

On the Edge

[Linked Image]

Two at the Scrape

[Linked Image]

Young Gun

Bluff Called

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/19/22 06:44 PM

Nice deer Tejas. Been slow here with so much chow for the yotes laying around and now everyone is a yote hunter. I’ve had two show up wounded.
When that happens I use my secret weapon. The best lure made for my yotes. A fox. This little female has brought in two yotes that didn’t leave. Front bait is for the fox so she can get to cover quickly. If I’m not there to provide sniper cover.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/27/22 10:08 PM

You still chasing deer James?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/29/22 12:52 AM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

You still chasing killing deer James?

As we speak BT.

Here’s seven year old with a big drop from a few days back.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Cattrapper77

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/29/22 01:13 AM

Nice buck! Congrats

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/29/22 02:56 AM

I figured so

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/29/22 02:01 PM

Here are a few more random shots from the field.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Fourcoil

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/06/23 02:37 PM

Just found this forum. Great stuff. Enjoy readin ur comments. Have learned a lot with many helpful comments. Trap in michigan. Lots of cols and snow. Thanks for the education.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/08/23 08:09 PM

You ire Welcome Fourcoil!

Helping folks is what it’s all about.

Welcome to the T-Man Crew!

Posted By: Fourcoil

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/08/23 10:59 PM

Thanks. Hope to b able to contribute as time passes. Keep um set.
Love the sand. Set in frozen grd here. Waxed dirt my friend .

Posted By: Fourcoil

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/15/23 01:20 AM

Tejas, wonderin what kind of pan tension u run. Mine is on the heavy side. Try to avoid non targets. Not so much a problem after freez up.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/23 10:04 AM

Fourcoil, I run 3½ to four pounds of pan tension.

The 2 coil MB 550’s I use came that way out of the box.

That tension keeps most of the smaller coon and fox from tripping the trap while still picking up the youngsters in early fall.

You’ll probably have to make some adjustments if you are running four coil traps to get that kind of poundage.

I’ve found that the two coil MB 550 has more than enough holding power for even the biggest coyote.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/23 10:08 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I’ve found that the two coil MB 550 has more than enough holding power for even the biggest coyote.

I have caught several adult wolves in mine and they held just fine.

Posted By: 8117 Steve R

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/23 10:56 AM

Originally Posted by 20scout

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I’ve found that the two coil MB 550 has more than enough holding power for even the biggest coyote.

I have caught several adult wolves in mine and they held just fine.

Same here, I hold a higher percentage of wolves if I have shock springs on the 550s. Thinking about removing all of them.

Posted By: Fourcoil

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/23 09:36 PM

Been runnin 3 to 4 #. Tryin to eliminate none targets. Mostly mb 650.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/19/23 12:49 AM

We scheduled a little aerial assault to bring in the New Year.

Our regular ride is the R66, but this trip we took the smaller R44.

[Linked Image]

Coyote and pig were on the menu.

Scatterguns loaded with buckshot were the prescribed medicine.

[Linked Image]

Five hours flight time yielded a grand total of two coyote targets acquired and shot.

[Linked Image]

When a chopper pilot that flies this area every day comments on the absence of Wile E. on your ground you know you’re on the right track.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/19/23 12:50 AM

Just like the trail cam bait recon, the helicopter results are a fairly accurate reflection of the coyote population on the ranch. That's why the deer survey and recon is done in the same manner. The sand reveals the remaining low-key coyote crew.

Sure, there are coyotes are not seen from the chopper, but it still gives you a good window into what kind of numbers you are dealing with.

As stated before, the day and night bait station photos don’t reflect true coyote density as much as they showcase the effectiveness of good bait on location. Had there been a large concentration of coyotes in the area we would have seen a good percentage of them from the air.

This also demonstrates the scope of how effective a bait station can be at pulling coyotes in from a long distance over time. The fact that the coyote population had not filled back in after 8-10 months of no pressure shows that the buffer zone created can be long-lasting even in an area known for its numbers.

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/19/23 03:18 AM

Dad-gum------ I have been telling the Missus I shore need me a helicopter to hunt coyotes-- she aint going for it

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/29/23 01:41 AM

We scheduled another flyover targeting coyote and pig a few days back.

The weather conditions that morning were cool temps with heavy cloud cover.

We hoped this would keep targets on their feet later into the morning.

With the tank topped off and a few shells on board we took to the air.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/29/23 01:52 AM

Tejas that sure looks like a ton of fun!!! Killed a yote with jewelry out the kill window.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/29/23 02:27 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Tejas that sure looks like a ton of fun!!! Killed a yote with jewelry out the kill window.

[Linked Image]

That was a waste to collar that one, they didn't have time to get much if any data on that one. Can still see the mark on it's paw where it was in the trap

You gonna leave us hanging James?
What did the helo trip net you?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/29/23 02:37 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Tejas that sure looks like a ton of fun!!

It’s a lot like riding like a roller coaster at the amusement park.

The only difference is they hand you a twelve gauge and a box of buckshot.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/29/23 02:55 AM

Three hours flight time produced only two coyotes.

This big male was taken on the perimeter of the ranch.

With the rut still on there’s a good chance he had just crossed the fence and was caught looking for love in all the wrong places.

[Linked Image]

If I had to guess I would say that a coyote can probably run somewhere in the neighborhood of forty miles per hour with a little salt on his tail.

The agility they show on a prickly pear obstacle course while at high speed would make Wile E. proud.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/30/23 10:50 PM

I managed to snap a few photos of a couple of the bucks we came across while in the air.

This old warhorse was a monster last year. He managed to elude us in the 21-22 season.

It looks like he sustained an injury that affected his antler growth.

It will be interesting to see if he makes a comeback in the fall.

[Linked Image]

Wide Track

[Linked Image]

Now & Then

[Linked Image]

Pigs can't but deer can.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/30/23 11:33 PM

Good pics James

Posted By: jalstat

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/01/23 01:27 PM

Nice

Posted By: FoxExterminator

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/01/23 02:09 PM

Originally Posted by Carolina Foxer

Thanks for taking the time to make this thread Tejas. You take great pictures too.

I was wondering, if you are on a 'kill em all' type approach, and have to deal with super wary coyotes, have you considered using 2 traps at each set instead of one? I'm sure you have plenty of reasons why NOT, but was just curious.

I just started reading this excellent thread and I can only make a comparison to some early mistakes that I made with foxes, namely that I made mistakes twice with setting 2 snares less than 6 ft apart and on both occasions once a fox was snared he / she then proceeded to trigger the adjoining snare in attempts to escape. 2 snares wasted instead of 1.

I can only guess that a similar outcome would occur if Tejas used 2 traps at each set.

Posted By: FoxExterminator

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/01/23 02:17 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Golf, I’ve cut back to just over two dozen right now.

Traffic on the road dictates how many I have out at any one time and where.

Tejas....that makes sense as those traps look nasty if a human were to accidentally step on one? Hope that never happens. (although I have read later in this thread that you caught a few illegal aliens

maybe uncle Sam should give you a full time job?

Regards F.E.

Posted By: FoxExterminator

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/01/23 05:34 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Tejas that sure looks like a ton of fun!!! Killed a yote with jewelry out the kill window.

[Linked Image]

That was a waste to collar that one, they didn't have time to get much if any data on that one. Can still see the mark on it's paw where it was in the trap

You gonna leave us hanging James?
What did the helo trip net you?

Today I learned a great deal about Yotes and many other things from reading this excellent thread, as I explained to my 8 year old boy yesterday...We should all be learning new things every day until the day we die! The day you don't learn something new is the day your brain starts going into remission! Tejas I like playing chess games too (played in a few international tourneys in Europe and Asia)

I got a question that is itching for an answer

What do you guys do with catches that have jewelry? (tracking collars) Do the tracking devices not give away your locations? then again I am guessing that if your catches are on private property that you are entitled to dispose of the collars in any way you see fit?

Regards

F.E. (Irishman living in the UK)

Posted By: FoxExterminator

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/01/23 06:08 PM

Originally Posted by Longbeard12

Red fox and coyotes are never afraid of the tractor. Making hay the other day this red got as close as 15 yards from us.

looks like a juvinile to me they get a lot bigger over here

[Linked Image]

the last 3 above over 7.1kgs the first one maybe 8-10kgs ...I had no weighing equipment at that time

Regards

F.E.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/03/23 02:54 PM

It’s good to see our trapping friends from the UK chime in!

I'm glad you enjoyed the thread FoxEx!

I wish we had reds like you folks do.

The coyote has almost wiped out the grey fox down here along the border.

A few have started to filter back in after multiple years of putting pressure on the coyote population.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/03/23 03:12 PM

Here are a few more Brush Country Bucks that made it through the season.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/23 07:57 PM

When trappers think of coyotes and the effect they have on the deer herd, the fawn crop is the first thing that comes to mind.

Post-rut buck mortality is also a big factor to consider where Wile E. comes into play.

Before we started trapping here a significant number of post-rut bucks would be found dead each season.

Fighting injuries combined with relentless physical exertion and lack of nutrition intake during the rut can take its toll. While some injuries are fatal like a poke in the gut during a fight, many of the bucks are vulnerable to being run down by coyotes because of their wounds and/or poor condition.

Since trapping was implemented on the ranch the post-rut buck mortality has dropped off by roughly 80%.

That is an important statistic when you take into consideration the four and five year old bucks that have the potential to become giants if they live to see their seventh or eighth birthday.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/20/23 08:49 PM

Did u get a coordinate on that shed antler???

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/23 02:47 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Did u get a coordinate on that shed antler???

The bucks are still sporting their headgear down here Swamp.

The only antlers we find now are broken beams and G’s like in the photo above.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/21/23 10:34 PM

Well, look who stopped by for lunch!

I’m not a fan of fast food, but this is hard to pass up.

[Linked Image]

Without a 22 on hand I had to resort to a handy-dandy mesquite limb.
She made it to a sticker bush for safety, but I was able to fish her out.
The old girl wasn’t too happy about that.
A ticked off snake this size with two coils loaded has a strike distance up to half their body length.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/23 12:42 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

Did u get a coordinate on that shed antler???

The bucks are still sporting their headgear down here Swamp.

The only antlers we find now are broken beams and G’s like in the photo above.

That one looks to be complete...
[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/23 12:46 AM

That is a good sized snake

You fryin it for dinner?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/23 03:47 AM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

That one looks to be complete.

It certainly is Swamp.

As you can see It is an old sun bleached shed from the prior season.

That is why I included that photo with the caption "Now & Then".

Now & Then

[Linked Image]

Posted By: jalstat

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/23 08:07 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Well, look who stopped by for lunch!

I’m not a fan of fast food, but this is hard to pass up.

[Linked Image]

Without a 22 on hand I had to resort to a handy-dandy mesquite limb.
She made it to a sticker bush for safety, but I was able to fish her out.
The old girl wasn’t too happy about that.
A ticked off snake this size with two coils loaded has a strike distance up to half their body length.

Last time I ran into one of those was hunting Rio Grandes out of San Angelo couldn't figure out what was making all that racket till I seen it a a guns length between me and a fence it did not fare well against 3 inch turkey loads lol .. Jon

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/23 07:04 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

That is a good sized snake
You fryin it for dinner?

I pulled her skin off and put the carcass in the freezer.

Hopefully I will come across a few more to make it worth heating up the grease.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 02/22/23 07:16 PM

She was over five feet long with thirteen rattles plus the button.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/23 03:26 PM

• Gang Sets •

With a new season just around the corner we all look back on what has worked well for us in the past.

Gang set catches often stand out as the highlight of a successful year. It lets you know you are heading in the right direction.

I'd like to hear what other trappers have had the best luck with over the years.

I think this would also help some of the new folks that are looking to score their first double or triple play.

When it comes to gang set catches what has been your most productive set, smell, & strategy to reel in multiple coyotes at one location?

If you have a few multi-catch photos lying around post them up! You might include a line or two as to why that setup was so successful.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/23 03:42 PM

Here's one of my first gang set catches. It showcases a few important factors that contributed to the double.

[Linked Image]

This sweeping bend in the road had a good deal of coyote sign.

Ninety-five percent of the traffic was on the inside track. This is almost always the case when a long straight stretch of road meets a turn like this one.

The set in the foreground was a remake from the prior morning where a big red male coyote had been taken.

These two sets took three coyotes their first two nights fishing.

Hole sets with fresh bait and a very small amount of lure was the ticket at this location.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/23 10:30 PM

Hey there Tejas . Was wondering where you were at .

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/17/23 11:07 PM

He is living the good life. Working hard like Steeltraps.

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/18/23 09:15 PM

Gang sets----- my best 5 at one location one check. Trail and flat sets 100 yds or so from a bait draw station. Let them get to working it and then set it up back a ways

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/19/23 03:59 AM

Originally Posted by ks wolfer

Gang sets----- my best 5 at one location one check.

Trail and flat sets 100 yds or so from a bait draw station. Let them get to working it and then set it up back a ways

Outstanding KSW!

That's how you put a serious hurt on the coyote population.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/19/23 01:34 PM

Here is one of several photos that illustrates what ks wolfer pointed out in the above post.

This is one of three first night doubles using just over a dozen traps. All three pairs are within sight of each other.

[Linked Image]

Hole Set – Fresh Bait – Lure – Urine – Wool

This was back in the day when hole sets were still effective here. That reign was short-lived, lasting little more than one season.

This big old male was nicknamed "Scarface". He has a great story behind him, but I’ll save that for another post..

Notice the second coyote in the upper left.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/20/23 03:16 PM

Here is another double just down the sendero from the first pair.

[Linked Image]

Adult Female – Hole Set – Fresh Bait – Lure – Urine – Wool

Second coyote upper left.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 08/23/23 10:32 AM

When it comes to gang sets a crowd attracts a crowd.

This pasture became a ghost town after the third check.

Fourteen Traps - Eleven Coyotes - Three Days. That included four doubles.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 01:03 PM

It’s just about time to get the old bait ball rolling !

[Linked Image]

The carcass is placed out early to pull in the aerial cleanup crew.

The racket made by the birds during the day will be heard by any coyote in the immediate area.

[Linked Image]

Keeping the bait from being hauled off is the primary goal.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 01:55 PM

Right off the bat we have a young female creeping up to the bait.

[Linked Image]

Several pups showed up a short time later.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: KB64

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 07:59 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

He is living the good life. Working hard like Steeltraps.

Speaking of ST, anybody heard from him ?

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 09:31 PM

I haven't seen Chris online here for a couple weeks. I was just asking another member recently if they had heard from him.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 09:42 PM

With temps still in the low 100’s most of the birds are still North of the Rio Grande.

They make short work of anything that hits the ground at this time of year.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 09:49 PM

It don't take them long. The night crew will there after dark

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 10:08 PM

Quite often the night shift works into the early morning hours.

This is why I never run the line at first light.

[Linked Image]

She is really putting those front paws and back legs to work.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/28/23 11:28 PM

She will have the squirts for a few days from all the fat that is being consumed

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/29/23 12:23 AM

Glad to see your back down at the ranch,always a good ride along when you start killing coyotes,as for ST I hope the demons didn't catch up to him,that whiskey is a bad demon,it's been 17 days since his last post,hope all is well.If you can post more pictures of those deer your helping to protect to become monster 7.5,to 10.5 year old bucks.

Posted By: Mac

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/29/23 09:55 AM

TEJAS
Thanks for sharing. Looking forward to so trapline pictures.

Mac

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/29/23 11:55 AM

Give em heck James

Posted By: KB64

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 09/29/23 09:15 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

I haven't seen Chris online here for a couple weeks. I was just asking another member recently if they had heard from him.

Saw the guy who I presume is his booking agent advertising for a trapper in Bama because his main guy is staying in Texas doing contract work. Hopefully he's busy hanging snares in sheep country and can't post. Miss seeing his updates along with the other guys like Tejas, etc with the mega-threads.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/01/23 12:59 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

She will have the squirts for a few days from all the fat that is being consumed

Mr.Jameson, have you ever tried using caul fat as an attractant, ingredient, or bait ?

I always thought it might hold more of an attraction than subcutaneous fat.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/01/23 01:54 PM

More picture's James,buck pictures then coyotes.First hunters show up yet?

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/01/23 09:42 PM

I have used it sparingly over the years. There isn't much bulk to it, but I have caught predators on it over the years. I have used beef and Whitetail Caul. I used scissors to cut it up for use on the line. A big bundle of it hung out and elevated on a post or tree branch gets lots of visitors in a few days, then it was gone.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/02/23 12:11 PM

Sunday evening was bait night.

[Linked Image]

Brought the Benelli just for fun but the rifle got this one.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/02/23 12:41 PM

Nice work James! Took a few problem sounders away killing that female.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/02/23 01:14 PM

Love this thread

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/03/23 12:31 PM

Here is the ranch version of Monday night football.

This boar tipped the scales at just over 170 pounds.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/03/23 01:28 PM

That is some good eating pig size there James.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/04/23 10:19 AM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

That is some good eating pig size there James.

It is Mr Jameson.

We typically won’t keep the boars because they usually pack a powerful smell. Even the young males often stink to high heaven.

My favorite eating pigs are the little female shoats. Any guilt we kill will go in the freezer as well.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/04/23 10:57 AM

James do you save the blood? Makes a great lure DEEP in a hole. Others I know, will mix the blood with fish oil or urine for another attractor.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/04/23 02:17 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

James do you save the blood? Makes a great lure DEEP in a hole. Others I know, will mix the blood with fish oil or urine for another attractor.

You Betcha’ MC !

I collect it fresh. It goes bad really quick so I freeze it in small 16 ounce bottles for easy use.

That way I always have fresh on hand. I won’t use it once it has gone South.

You can mix that blood up with all kinds of stuff and the coyotes will pound it.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/04/23 10:34 PM

In October we usually have a lot of pigs on the payroll.

They consume an enormous amount of protein and push deer off the feeders.

Their line of credit at the ranch has just about run out. It's high time for them to pay for all those free dinners.

[Linked Image]

We will target the big sows first and work our way through each sounder.

This is just a few of the Dirty Dozen that hit this feeder after the sun goes down.

That is a thousand pound feeder they are standing under for scale.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/05/23 01:20 AM

Kill em,are you able to kill a 100 every year?I'm sure that just puts a little dent in their population,dang pig's.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/05/23 11:45 AM

Originally Posted by rick olson

Kill em,are you able to kill a 100 every year?I'm sure that just puts a little dent in their population,dang pig's.

2 years ago I killed 47 or so off of 50 ac from 1/1 to 12/31. Didn't put a dent in the population

James those are some well fed porkers. Sows will probably eat good.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/05/23 12:36 PM

The pig population will vary widely depending on what the ranches do around us.

We shoot, trap, and aerial gun them out of a helicopter.

Sometimes we can get a handle on them pretty quick. Then other years it is just a nonstop “pigapalooza”.

I have never really kept a running total on them.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/07/23 05:24 PM

New object avoidance is a big factor at bait stations here.

This even applies to familiar sights and smells that coyotes have seen at that location over and over again.

A new bait identical to the last will get avoidance just because it is new on the scene.

I believe the same applies to your sets on a smaller scale.

This female made passes at the new marrano all night long into the early morning hours.

[Linked Image]

After all the drive-bys she never once touched the hog.This was her closest approach.

[Linked Image]

The aggressive head down charge used to run off other coyotes is also used against the birds.

[Linked Image]

Notice the red-headed vulture about to bail.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/07/23 08:29 PM

This little tank weighed in at 200 pounds.

[Linked Image]

Decent Cutters for a Crusierweight Boar.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/08/23 04:38 PM

Originally Posted by rick olson

More buck pictures…...

Here you go Rick!

Bucks are still in their bachelor groups.

Here's a photo from yesterday around 6:30 pm.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/09/23 12:16 PM

It’s been really dry here this summer.

[Linked Image]

Then it started to rain…..

[Linked Image]

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/09/23 07:48 PM

Thank's James always like deer pictures,I was walking my field edges at the house this afternoon,fresh scrapes in the dirt first of the season.There were four in about a 80 yard stretch.I might sit at the house this evening,we finally have a north wind 48 now,it might make it to 50 today,thanks for sharing some pictures,looking forward to more when you have time.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/10/23 10:26 AM

If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break

[Linked Image]

When the levee breaks, I'll have no place to stay

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/10/23 10:28 AM

Cryin' won't help you, prayin' won't do you no good

[Linked Image]

No, cryin' won't help you, prayin' won't do you no good

[Linked Image]

When the levee breaks, mama, you got to move.....

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/10/23 11:30 AM

Deer gonna need snorkels before long

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/10/23 01:31 PM

We sure could have used that rain in March BT.

When it comes to rainfall we will take all Mother Nature will send our way.

Maybe the ducks will pass through here this season.

I've already seen a bunch of Blue Wing Teal hanging out in the last week or so.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/17/23 02:29 PM

With temps starting to fall, the big deer are on the move.

I was able to get a brief glimpse of this monster before he melted back into the pear.

Not many main frame eights will make the 170’s. This buck is an exception to the rule.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/17/23 03:18 PM

Great buck

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/20/23 11:21 AM

Here is a question or two for the coyote crew.

What primary factor(s) do you think helps trigger coyote movement the most in your area ?

Do you see a increase in the population in your neck of the woods at a certain time of the year?

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/20/23 11:27 AM

Cooler temps shorter daylight periods go hand in hand.They need to eat more to build up their fat for the long cold winters up north is my take.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/20/23 12:40 PM

Around my semi rural area farming practices....big machinery pushes critters around including coyotes followed closely by hunting. And I'll throw in traffic and roads as a limiting factor for young of the year.
Just my take.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/20/23 03:40 PM

Storm fronts trigger coyote movement. Doesn't have to be a major storm, just a front that starts bringing the barometric pressure down. Most movement around here will be 2 days before the front. Very little movement on the day of the front.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/23 11:58 AM

Originally Posted by rick olson

Cooler temps shorter daylight periods go hand in hand.They need to eat more to build up their fat for the long cold winters up north is my take.

Good point Rick.

I hadn’t thought of shorter days factoring in to how much a coyote moves. An internal clock so to speak.

When do you notice coyotes on their feet more? Is it as early as September, or into October?

Building up fat stores must be something they do automatically as well. Around here they build up their fat layer even though the temps seldom drop below freezing.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/23 08:52 PM

Yep before big weather changes for sure.Sept there teaching their pups to hunt so you see them quite often.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/21/23 11:29 PM

About this time of year here. I have been contacted by several people this week about coyotes showing up on trail cams and seeing them in their fields.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/23 10:55 AM

Originally Posted by Slipknot

About this time of year here. I have been contacted by several people this week about coyotes showing up on trail cams and seeing them in their fields.

Hey Slip, what kind of deer and coyote population do you folks have in Southeast LA.?

I thought you might have a bigger deer density being closer to MS.

I'm familiar with the SW and part of Louisiana. The Cajuns keep the critters in check there

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/23 11:07 AM

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Storm fronts trigger coyote movement. Doesn't have to be a major storm, just a front that starts bringing the barometric pressure down.

Most movement around here will be 2 days before the front. Very little movement on the day of the front.

I’ve never considered keeping track of coyote movement several days prior to a front.

Do you see coyote activity increase just prior to the barometric pressure falling?

I will certainly take note on those days and see how it shakes out around here.

Thanks for the heads up Silky.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/23 01:15 PM

Our deer densities are ok in my area .Lot of hunting clubs in our area.some manage a lot don't.The further north of me the better it gets.Our coyotes are decent we we have a mix of pine and clear cuts.i have 2 hunting clubs i trap that are about 2 miles from my home that has a good population.The only issue i have there is those clubs never rest from Traffic year round.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/23 04:37 PM

Coyote movement is sparse here in September.

The traffic starts to pick up slightly starting the second to third week of October.

The four sets of eyes in the background are new arrivals on the bait.

[Linked Image]

Note the date.

Posted By: silkyplainscoyot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/22/23 08:52 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by silkyplainscoyot

Storm fronts trigger coyote movement. Doesn't have to be a major storm, just a front that starts bringing the barometric pressure down.

Most movement around here will be 2 days before the front. Very little movement on the day of the front.

I’ve never considered keeping track of coyote movement several days prior to a front.

Do you see coyote activity increase just prior to the barometric pressure falling?

I will certainly take note on those days and see how it shakes out around here.

Thanks for the heads up Silky.

Yes, movement will increase one day prior to the pressure dropping. Pressure usually drops 24 hours before storm front. So, you will see good movement 2 days before front. For example, we have possible rain/snow mix coming Thursday night. Tuesday night will have excellent movement and the pressure will start to drop Wednesday. Wednesday night will have good movement as well. I don't see as much movement during the evening of the front. Once the front passes you will see good movement the following night.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/23/23 01:22 PM

This is the same group of new coyotes from the previous photo taken two minutes later.

I see this behavior over and over again just like the crawling.

Coyotes will sit down a comfortable distance from the bait and survey the situation.

Notice three in the background sitting down checking out the scene.

This usually occurs when there are multiple coyotes present, but it also happens with singles as well.

[Linked Image]

These newcomers will be extra cautious until they get accustomed with the setup.
They also have to work around the coyotes that have already laid claim on the carcass.
There is a lot of fighting that goes on at times when a new group shows up at the dinner table.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/23 11:24 AM

I count 7-8 yotes total Tejas...new family hit that moved in?

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/23 11:51 AM

James it looks like you have an endless supply of contestants

Learning lots from your pictures

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/23 02:12 PM

Originally Posted by MChewk

I count 7-8 yotes total Tejas...new family unit that moved in?

I haven’t got a close look at the group together but I think they are mostly adults in this batch from looking at single photos up close.

I never see the fall pup dispersal that everyone always talks about. It may occur in other areas, but I have yet to see that here.

Newcomers are mostly adults. They slowly filter in as the season progresses. I will see an influx of pups born in 2023 show up in early 2024 as juveniles.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/23 02:46 PM

Here is a zoomed in photo that further illustrates the sitting behavior.

It also showcases the holding power of the bait station.

This lone adult checks out the bait at a distance well after daylight yesterday morning.

[Linked Image]

Time - 7:49 am.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/24/23 03:11 PM

Here is another new contestant.

I think this old timer is looking for a nice retirement community.

[Linked Image]

In the end she’s going to wish she went to Florida……

10-23-23
8:08 am.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/25/23 02:04 AM

It’s Two Fer’ Tuesday!

If 150 pounds of bait is good then 300 must be better!

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/25/23 03:13 PM

Endless supply

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/23 10:19 AM

Originally Posted by Crappiekiller

Endless supply

Yes it is CK.

We trap, thermal, and aerial gun them, but they just keep on coming.

It is a war of attrition.

More folks need to join the fight.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/23 06:41 PM

We Remember.....

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Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/26/23 06:43 PM

God Bless Texas

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Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/30/23 09:05 PM

It’s been way too busy around here to post up much on T-Man lately.

Hopefully I’ll get caught up enough where that will change in the near future.

I’ve spent the last few weeks rounding up cattle to run through the working pens.

[Linked Image]

It was good to send the last mama cow through the chute.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 10/31/23 02:08 PM

We've taken a lot of big sows off the payroll in the last few weeks.

[Linked Image]

The pigs will become much more elusive as the pressure continues.

Posted By: Leftlane

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/01/23 02:36 AM

You're makin them good pigs- WTG

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/01/23 10:54 AM

Here is the big eight from a few pages back.

He taped out well over 170.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/01/23 10:56 AM

Seeing bucks like this make it to maturity is the main reason I kill coyotes.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/01/23 01:25 PM

My son and I had a conversation recently about coyotes and their effect on deer. We’re on 2500ac and I’ve taken about 20 coyotes this year and I’m sure there’s still more as we get an occasional pic.
Our conversation was they aren’t doing much to help with controlling our deer population. Not saying they don’t take any, just saying they don’t take enough as over half of those coyotes came way after fawning season.
I’m starting to think Eastern coyotes are different than the Western coyotes. Maybe it’s the amount of food they have. Ours seem to be picky eaters sometimes. And sometimes they’ll have you bewildered as to what they eat and who they’ll share a meal with. I have deer and coyotes eating on the same pile of peanuts. I have coyotes and a possum on the same pile of peanuts.
I’ve never seen a coyote on a dead hog and have seen both deer and hogs rot away with nothing touching them. On the other hand I’ve caught coyotes on horse, muskrat, bobcat, and beaver based baits. I’ve caught them on fresh chunked bobcat as well. I’ve yet to catch them on fresh beaver or deer, it’ll rot in a hole and nothing will touch it. Out of the bought baits, horse base produced the best. I was out of bait once and drilled an extra large hole and caught a coyote on a sardine can just cracked open with a little oil at the entrance before shoving the entire can down the hole.
I’m sure our coyotes take fawns down here so I’d hate to see what our population would look like if they didn’t. We are at the point of riding and shooting does right now. Most of my landowners want to nest raiders gone and “deer killers” are secondary to them. I trap the coyotes and cats to save turkeys. I’m guessing your area doesn’t have the small game population we have in the South and deer would be one of their main food sources.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/01/23 02:25 PM

Looks like you have him sedated nicely. Catch and release, eh? Did you dart him from a chopper?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/01/23 06:10 PM

I thought you would enjoy that Mr. Jameson

It takes a little effort to teach them to “load up”!

For the record he was released…..into the walk-in cooler. It was a good death.

Hopefully his heart & liver will be killing coyotes before too long.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/02/23 12:18 PM

Very nice buck James

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/02/23 08:12 PM

Howdy Tejas, getting them ready to die at the shed. Had six here a week ago. I was surprised figured they would be broke up by now. Since then this adult male has took over the bait. Here most nights with multiple visits. Gets a hard lesson on the 10th.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/02/23 08:21 PM

Looks to be furred out Rob...any word from your fur buyer on items he is buying and prices?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/02/23 08:24 PM

He is Mike, I’ve watched him at 10 yards. We’ll furred with a very full neck. Had the six all within 29 yards and they all looked good. Still doom and gloom on the market here as far as I know.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/03/23 11:19 AM

Thanks Rob, I got the itch to see some working the chain rig....good luck this season.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/03/23 02:22 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Here is the big eight from a few pages back.

He taped out well over 170.

[Linked Image]

That is a great buck. Now let’s hear the details.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/03/23 05:07 PM

Originally Posted by Crappiekiller

That is a great buck. Now let’s hear the details.

You Bet CK!

I had been working cattle in the pasture next to where this buck stayed. Most of the other deer had left the area because they hate cattle even more than Javi’s. We had a big rain a week or two before this hunt so a lot of new forbs were starting to sprout. Certain open areas will hold a different kind of browse from what you will find in the brush. The deer are drawn to this new growth like a magnet.

The first evening hunt had a few good bucks show up including the running buddy of the big eight point. We came up with an empty sack that evening. Morning hunts can be a problem because you blow up deer on the way in to the stand. The deer usually feed a majority of the night so they are just about ready to bed by the time you get in the stand. Eating is often an afterthought after being on their feet all night.

I know where this buck beds and where he was likely to go once he got up to browse the night before. Knowing he would still be on his feet when we were on the way to the stand that morning we slipped in the back door as not to run him off. He showed up right at dawn for a last minute snack with his two buddies. A good shot right through the shoulders anchored the buck where he stood. The buck was seven years old. The veteran hunter is in his eighties.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/04/23 12:40 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Howdy Tejas, getting them ready to die at the shed. Had six here a week ago. I was surprised figured they would be broke up by now. Since then this adult male has took over the bait. Here most nights with multiple visits. Gets a hard lesson on the 10th.

Hey YG!

I was wondering how things were going out your way!

I'm looking forward to your coyote killing exploits and observations.

Fur market or not, coyotes need to die.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/05/23 12:12 PM

Good Sunday Morning Killers of the Coyote!

Fall is in the air and the bucks are on the move.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/05/23 01:05 PM

This South Texas buck sports good mass and tine length.

Long 2's & 3's along with big brows will help him score well.

[Linked Image]

This shot was taken from a ground blind within bow range.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/05/23 01:08 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by Crappiekiller

That is a great buck. Now let’s hear the details.

You Bet CK!

I had been working cattle in the pasture next to where this buck stayed. Most of the other deer had left the area because they hate cattle even more than Javi’s. We had a big rain a week or two before this hunt so a lot of new forbs were starting to sprout. Certain open areas will hold a different kind of browse from what you will find in the brush. The deer are drawn to this new growth like a magnet.

The first evening hunt had a few good bucks show up including the running buddy of the big eight point. We came up with an empty sack that evening. Morning hunts can be a problem because you blow up deer on the way in to the stand. The deer usually feed a majority of the night so they are just about ready to bed by the time you get in the stand. Eating is often an afterthought after being on their feet all night.

I know where this buck beds and where he was likely to go once he got up to browse the night before. Knowing he would still be on his feet when we were on the way to the stand that morning we slipped in the back door as not to run him off. He showed up right at dawn for a last minute snack with his two buddies. A good shot right through the shoulders anchored the buck where he stood. The buck was seven years old. The veteran hunter is in his eighties.

TEJAS
Great story. Thanks for sharing.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/05/23 06:22 PM

So what’s one of those deer cost? Or is it a family/friends only place?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/05/23 09:47 PM

A late afternoon shot with a lot of contrast.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/06/23 03:38 PM

Nice James

Made my first sit of the season this morning

Deer were moving here too. Couple of does being harassed by bucks

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/06/23 07:08 PM

BT, they are already fighting a little bit here.

A lot of ears back approaches even by the smaller bucks.

Everybody is sizing up the competition.

It's going to get ugly early I’m afraid.

[Linked Image]

This buck broke his left beam off within a day or so after taking this photo. ( Notice the broken left G2.)

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/07/23 02:02 PM

This is one of my favorite young bucks.

He put on a lot of frame this year.

[Linked Image]

Notice the ears back aggressive posture.

All of the extras really add to the buck’s character.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/07/23 03:39 PM

Saw a coyote the last 2 mornings while on deer stand

Will be getting traps in the ground soon

Usuually see them on game cameras, rarely see one from deer stand.
Bucket list item is coyote with bow. Have hit 2 but didn't find either. I don't count unless I put my hands on it. Pretty sure I killed one as it was pouring blood and then just quit like it vaporized

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/08/23 03:00 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Bucket list item is coyote with bow.

Put a bait out and set up a tree stand. The key is to get high enough to stay out of their wind.

You will check that bucket list item off in short order.

The good thing with a bow is you can take multiple coyotes off the bait before they wise up.

How is this for a wide open shot standing still?

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/08/23 05:44 PM

This is an interesting take, and good topic for discussion.

I think there are a lot of variables that have to be taken into account as well.

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

My son and I had a conversation recently about coyotes and their effect on deer.

Our conversation was they aren’t doing much to help with controlling our deer population. Not saying they don’t take any, just saying they don’t take enough as over half of those coyotes came way after fawning season.

I’m starting to think Eastern coyotes are different than the Western coyotes. Maybe it’s the amount of food they have. I’m sure our coyotes take fawns down here so I’d hate to see what our population would look like if they didn’t.

Most of my landowners want to nest raiders gone and “deer killers” are secondary to them. I trap the coyotes and cats to save turkeys.

I’m guessing your area doesn’t have the small game population we have in the South and deer would be one of their main food sources.

It would be interesting to hear from other trappers in different states on the subject of depredation.

What effect do you think coyotes have on your local deer population?

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/08/23 06:11 PM

From my observations and experience coyotes do hit the fawns pretty hard in the spring. After that I believe the coyotes are opportunistic in nature. They catch and kill what they can, when they need to eat. Much like other parts of the U.S. they eat what is available to survive both seasonal plant and animal food sources.

I know I have seen the impact of coyotes on our woodchucks and fox population over the years. I also know they take those animals both young and adults alike. I know of a red fox den that was wiped out by a pair of coyotes one spring. Right place, right time sort of education.

In fact, those 2 species are really impacted in the East from my observations. (Red Fox & Woodchuck)

Sick, young, injured and older deer certainly fall prey to coyotes, and the healthy alert deer have more success in surviving. We have a boat load of deer in our tri county area. So, there is lots of big and small game to get them through. I also know they take some turkeys as I have seen that firsthand a few times while out on the line.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/09/23 04:03 AM

They take some fawns here, not sure how many, I've seen ones they've taken, but I don't think it is enough to affect the population. In the winter the coyotes will pack up to an extent here and do kill adult deer, most commonly that I see it is yearlings that they kill, but they will kill larger adults on occasion. This is both whitetail and mule deer. Primarily they eat small game however. Where I grew up on the coast it was pretty much unheard of for coyotes to kill adult deer, even the small blacktails we had there, they did kill fawns though.

Frankly out west, although they do eat deer, I don't think it is enough to affect the deer population, I have heard repeatedly however how the larger eastern coyotes prey heavily on deer.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/09/23 12:46 PM

I think the coyotes here will get the sick and injured deer and the occasional fawn when they get the opportunity.

They have hammered the rabbits, I rarely ever see a cottontail anymore and have seen exactly 1 fox in 30+ years of living on my place.

They eat my wife's chickens and that has slowed way down since I have seriously trapped them for the past few years.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/09/23 01:35 PM

Up here in northern Mn they eat plenty of fawns and some adults bucks after the long hard rut they kill some of those.Calves are taken 60 to 80 lbs are killed more than people think.Two springs ago 4 coyotes killed a calf about 180 to 200 lbs they died!They eat anything they can catch,fowl,small animals etc. They are born killers and need to be kept in check for sure.

Posted By: 20scout

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/09/23 01:52 PM

I agree with Rick. They are opportunists and will take advantage of a situation. Pups are born early enough so they are ready to eat meat when the fawns drop. They can easily take several a week to feed their large litter along with any farm animals.

Posted By: Sharkhunter

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/10/23 01:34 AM

We would lose about 75% of our fawns to coyotes. After I started trapping our property 2k acres we saw a huge increase in our deer herd over the last two years. I had a biologies tell me if you can buy a fawn two full weeks ( 10 to 14 days) the fawn has a 90% chance of not being taken by a predator.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/10/23 03:36 PM

Originally Posted by Sharkhunter

If you can buy a fawn two full weeks ( 10 to 14 days) the fawn has a 90% chance of not being taken by a predator.

You Betcha' !

This is what it all boils down to as far as fawns are concerned.

If they make it past the first few weeks they will probably survive.

The hurt needs to be put on Wile E. well before the fact. That way the area is void of coyotes during that time.

Trapping coyote after fawns drop to help their survival rate is too little too late. The damage has already been done.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/10/23 04:59 PM

Maybe we just have a higher deer population than other areas. We have to make a serious effort every year to reduce our deer numbers. We do everything from regular hunting, archery and rifle, to deer drives, and even riding in the mornings and evenings and stopping to shoot does. With all that we still have a robust population.

Then again maybe we just don’t have the coyote numbers other places have. Or maybe we do and our deer numbers would be completely out of control without them.

I’ve been going out sitting until well after dark listening for howls at sunset. Nothing yet.

A coon hunter found one of my management bucks dead last night. The manager went out this morning and found no holes of any kind or any signs of obvious sickness. He said the deer had been dead for days because it was making them gag while looking it over. What’s odd is nothing has touched that deer. The area the deer was found is in the back of our dove fields where I’ve shot 4 coyotes, 3 pups and the female back in August. You’d think if any were around or hungry they’d jump all over a free meal, especially one in the thicker bottoms.

We also have a robust small game population. Rabbits are everywhere along with squirrels, turkeys, and quail. We don’t hunt the small game except for turkeys and of course quail. We leave everything else as “prey” to protect the quail. We’d much rather a cat, fox, hawk, or snake take anything other than the money maker.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/10/23 05:14 PM

Some good thoughts and discussion on an important subject to many. Good Stuff Fellas!

Here are a few things I have noticed in the Brush Country WB

Coyotes can and do have a huge effect on the fawn population here. Our fawn numbers doubled the first summer after I started to kill coyotes.

When you have drought years where there is not a lot of cover for the fawns to hide it becomes easy pickin’ for the fawn killers. They can devastate the fawn crop in a hurry, especially in sparse conditions.

My number one call for coyotes here is fawn in distress. That is not a coincidence.

I can’t count the number of coyotes I’ve had come in to a turkey call over the years. In all that time I don’t remember one single bobcat coming to the call.
Like many have said, coyotes are opportunists.

As for small game, we have more critters per acre in the South Texas Brush Country than the Southeastern states probably realize. The cottontail population alone is staggering. The variety and sheer number of rodents is off the charts. Javi numbers are of plague proportions. Blues and bobwhites are both found here. The Rio Grande also calls this place home.The pantry list goes on and on. The reason for the high wildlife density is the diversity of brush we have in this area.

South Texas offers up an array of groceries for Wile E. to choose from..

Coyotes here eat deer & pig because it is what they want.

I can’t say I blame them one bit.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/11/23 01:29 AM

When it comes to coyotes and deer the main focus is usually on the fawn crop.

What many trappers and ranchers don’t take into account is post-rut buck mortality.

Coyotes will actively seek out and try to run down injured and/or rut-weary bucks.

Prior to trapping we would witness this every year like clockwork.

Coyotes would be seen hot on the tail of a post-rut buck that had used up all of his reserves chasing does night and day for weeks on end.

Finding a dead fawn is one thing. Finding a big six year old buck dead in a water hole with the back of his hind quarters eaten is another.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/11/23 03:15 PM

Here is a question. Most of those areas where the coyotes are considered a real problem to the deer population, people are actively farming the deer, feeders, food plots, etc. Do you think that affects the coyote predation? Does concentrating and 'taming' the deer by feeding increase the predation by coyotes?

Apparently it does not in Wanna Be's area, but what about other areas where they farm the deer?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/12/23 04:54 PM

That is a good question BC.

Are you referring to deer concentrated at feed locations, or just a big concentration of deer in general?

I have seen a few instances where an extremely sick buck was taken down by coyotes at a feed location.

Those deer were so poor they could have been easily killed just about anywhere. I have never seen a coyote target a feeder as a hunting location.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/12/23 10:43 PM

When it comes to killing pigs we always target the brain trust if we have the option.

The sows usually don’t get close to what the top boars weigh in at.

This big gal was an exception to the rule.

We named her Gordon Whitefoot.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/12/23 10:49 PM

This super-sow was 5’ 3” and tipped the scales at a whopping 270 pounds.

[Linked Image]

She is the only sow to earn a top five spot among the all-time ranch heavyweights.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/12/23 10:57 PM

That is a big sow. Good ness. I am sure she has lots of Genetics bearing her bloodline in the area.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/13/23 02:40 PM

If she ran across Big Red at 417 lbs. I would think that combo might produce another mega-hog,

I hate to think how much protein those two ate while on vacation here.

We’ve killed more big pigs this year than in season’s past.

Three more passed on since last night.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 10:56 AM

And then there were ten......

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 11:02 AM

Here is another question that I've been wondering about lately....

I would like to hear what the T-Man crew has to say on the subject.

How much does the moon really affect coyote movement?

Do you see trends in your catch rate when the moon is in a certain phase?

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 12:47 PM

James that is a big sow and looks like you got her before she dropped a litter

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 02:51 PM

Animals and people eat when hungry which is often, regardless of the moon phases. Burning calories does that to us all. I catch in all the moon and no moon phases.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 04:00 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

Animals and people eat when hungry which is often, regardless of the moon phases. Burning calories does that to us all. I catch in all the moon and no moon phases.

This.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 05:40 PM

I agree with Bob mostly,I do think when there good snow cover on full moons might be a little slower.We don't have a high population of coyotes,but full moon night are not as good for me.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/14/23 06:27 PM

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

Animals and people eat when hungry which is often, regardless of the moon phases.
Burning calories does that to us all. I catch in all the moon and no moon phases.

I am a firm believer in Mr. Jameson's line of thinking.

The above photo was taken on a ¾ full moon.

A slow morning on the coyote line is often blamed on moonlit nights and/or warm temps.

I have never found those factors to be a deterrent as far as coyote activity was concerned.

Coyotes have to make a living no matter what the conditions are.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 12:46 PM

I don't put much stock in those solunar tables. I'm sure the moon and sun have some influence but I have sat too many times when the table said "prime" and seen nothing and looked back at them after a good hunt (seeing a lot of movement) and it said "poor".

I think opportunity and weather have more influence.

Posted By: BigBlackBirds

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 03:01 PM

How about if I tweak Tejas’ question a touch. I’ll start with a general idea that there still could be coyote movement regardless of moon phase just because critters are critters — maybe they are looking for food or just going from point A to B because a weather changes is imminent.

So here’s a slightly different version of the question: Do you think that moon phase impacts how the coyotes respond/behaviors they display while moving on full moon vs no moon? And what might those behaviors be and do they impact your catch rates?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 07:03 PM

Howdy yote killers. Tejas remember me training them to die at the shed. Seven have learned very well. Lol

The resident male passed his test at 8 yards.
[Linked Image]

Killed some pups then another adult male came to check things out. See this all the time. Seems like it takes 2 to 5 days then new adults on bait.
[Linked Image]

Then last night a double dirt nap. Adult male and a pup female.
[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 07:06 PM

I seem to do very well on full moon nights. These yotes are close 29 yards and under. Always on edge and I wonder if they feel more comfortable in this situation on a bright night. They can see better maybe???

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 07:47 PM

When opportunity Calls, they will come. Unless something changes in the area that may cause them to stall and hold back until they feel the coast is clear again.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 07:56 PM

Yes animals have to eat on Full Moons, but prey seems to see easier as well. I believe predators stay closer to home on brighter nights.
As far as catching predators yes, I catch on all moons. As far as coyotes, I catch less during the brighter nights than I do compared to the darker nights. Now when it comes to bobcats, I catch more during the brighter nights than I do the darker nights.

And I’ll share a little something I’ve been seeing lately, which really just floors me. I get tired of shooting deer sometimes and I’ve been going out and sitting in my truck with the windows down in the evenings listening for coyotes. Just trying to see if I can hear a pack sounding off. I’ll add this truck is the exact truck I had when I started hunting/trapping this place 7-8 years ago. Deer are absolutely stupid at night. I have them walking as close to 10yds while I have my window down and looking at them through the scope.
Now for the crazy part…I have seen coyotes through the Thermal a long ways off and just used my mouth and squeaked them into 75yds of me sitting in my truck. I’ve been riding and scanning and even stopped the truck with the engine running (no lights) and squeaked them in. The first time it happened I held off until it was almost too late because I thought there’s absolutely NO way I’m calling a coyote straight to my white truck with me sitting in it. After the shot I was still hesitant walking up to it praying to God I wasn’t hallucinating while looking through the scope, lol. It was a coyote.
Anyone have any explanations? Or was I just giving the predators more credit than they deserve? Once I’d call a fluke, 3 times isn’t a fluke.

Posted By: BigBlackBirds

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/15/23 08:46 PM

Was hoping you might respond Wanna Be.

In reference to the second half of your comment, I’ve seen similar but it’s changed much over years too. When first started hunting at night 20 odd years back it was all red lights. In those days moonlite nights were hot as you can see out beyond where light beam throws on snow cover. Over time that advantage slowed way down. And now my general feeling is longer they’ve been pressured with night vision and thermal the more cautious they have become. To point that you probably need to plan on the truck being 1/4 plus mile out of sight if you aren’t messing with pups and don’t want to play sniper

So have you noticed different night responses with bright moon vs none? And perhaps you haven’t even considered that while you’re calling. If that’s case keep it in mind in future for something to observe. As you noted in your initial comments I think there is a lot to do with what their prey sees that probaby comes into play regarding what the coyotes do at night. But I’ve come to conclusion this stuff is way more dynamic than just whether moon is out or whether a critter is hungry but also includes hiw coyotes see to hunt/stalk/travel with more/less light and the comfort level of coyotes in complete darkness vs moonlight plus probably a ton of other things.

I see differences in moon vs no moon particularly after they’ve narrowed the gap from way out and get to around 400yd mark. And Im thinking it can impact hiw they hit up a set

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/23 10:11 AM

Nice shooting Rob! Keep them thinned out.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/23 04:53 PM

Originally Posted by BigBlackBirds

How about if I tweak Tejas’ question a touch. I’ll start with a general idea that there still could be coyote movement regardless of moon phase just because critters are critters — maybe they are looking for food or just going from point A to B because a weather changes is imminent.

So here’s a slightly different version of the question: Do you think that moon phase impacts how the coyotes respond/behaviors they display while moving on full moon vs no moon? And what might those behaviors be and do they impact your catch rates?

Good Question B³ !

I think the primary factor just might be the simple fact that they can see much better in brighter conditions.

Something that looks out of place in low light conditions will stick out like a sore thumb when you shed some moonlight on the subject.

I don’t think that favors the trapper that uses a lot of flashy sets. I do think it can help a good flat set man that uses subtle visuals and is good at blending.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/23 08:36 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Howdy yote killers.

Tejas remember me training them to die at the shed. Seven have learned very well. Lol

You Betcha’ YG!

Most trappers try to fool a coyote.

Only a few think to condition them.

Good to see you standing watch at the Killing Window again.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/23 08:41 PM

#8 died yesterday morning. Makes 150 out the kill window in six seasons. They keep coming and I’ll keep putting holes in them. Lol

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/17/23 10:16 PM

Rob if I remember right aren’t most of them coyotes dying over table scraps ?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 01:53 AM

Why heck yea, hate to see them die without a last meal.
Shoot about half on bait and half on scent posts.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 02:18 AM

What scent are you using to keep them there for a shot ?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 02:34 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

That makes 150 out the kill window in six seasons.

They keep coming and I’ll keep putting holes in them. Lol

Nice Work Rob.

I wouldn’t be surprised if you had 150 notches cut in the window sill in memory of all the coyotes that dropped by for a snack & sniff.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 02:44 AM

Lol snack and sniff. Love it!!!
Don usually run just a gland lure. I’ll have a scent post on each side of my shooting lane and usually at least two baits. Idea is keep them there thinking about what to do. Hesitation gets them killed.
I usually start out with just bait and won’t set up scent posts until the resident yotes are dead.
I’m not so sure that scent posts keep me from killing some paranoid pups.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 03:23 AM

I can’t help but think a deep hole full of fish oil or bacon grease or fryer oil or ....... would keep them busy while you was loading the magnum, lol .

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 03:42 AM

I do that on occasion, especially when I get looky loos. I dig a post holy about 2.5 feet to 3 feet deep. I like to throw a deer liver in it. Have to fill it in before spring though as it will look like a bomb went off by then.
Yotes will dig and dig, but if you get a fox working the hole he will clean you out. I’ve seen them with just their tail sticking up out of the hole.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 01:24 PM

Lol Rob! I had a coyote I caught yesterday trying to hide like that and his whole front end down an old badger hole. Young pup.
Keep the whacking and stacking...any 'cats ever show up?

Posted By: BigBlackBirds

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 02:32 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Good Question B³ !

I think the primary factor just might be the simple fact that they can see much better in brighter conditions.

Something that looks out of place in low light conditions will stick out like a sore thumb when you shed some moonlight on the subject.

I don’t think that favors the trapper that uses a lot of flashy sets. I do think it can help a good flat set man that uses subtle visuals and is good at blending.

I think you are correct that it gives an edge in visual acuity. Which probably gives them an edge in seeing our mistakes.

I’ll add that depending on the things they’ve encountered in past I’m thinking it could make them more cautious also. Id guess that being in the open on full moon is similar to being in a field at high noon. Definately more shy, slow to respond to me here on moon and when they do they use every piece of cover same as in day time

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/18/23 05:02 PM

Yep Mike guys are getting a few on cameras. I’ll wait till all the deer hunters go home then I’ll see if I can catch one.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 02:44 AM

This is a first at the bait station.

[Linked Image]

Notice the coyote in the background.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 12:35 PM

Good Morning Killers of the Coyote!

At first glance what would you say the age and sex of this coyote is?

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 12:40 PM

At first glance I would say male, past his prime but not geriatric

But since you asked, yearling female

I have seen deer investigating carcasses before, but not with a coyote in view.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 12:50 PM

That yote looks old with its long nose and it’s eyes are sunk in. And I would say male as well. But all the same time it’s head is as wide as it’s chest and it’s ears are huge. You officially have me confused. Lol
Almost everytime I refresh my bait with a new deer carcass I get deer visits the first two nights. I’ve even seen little bucks licking the carcasses.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 01:05 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

That yote looks old with its long nose and it’s eyes are sunk in. And I would say male as well.

But all the same time it’s head is as wide as it’s chest and it’s ears are huge. You officially have me confused. Lol

You make some good observations YG.

You've looked at a lot of coyotes to notice traits like that.

This coyote is missing it's left eye. That might have thrown you off a bit.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 01:51 PM

I believe the ears look larger due to the atrophy of the under lying muscle mass covering the skull. It looks somewhat emaciated, and it appears to have some signs of healed scars on the snout. It could be a young yote that has had a rough time of it, or an old dog that has not fed well with some ailment or has some problems with its teeth. Several scenarios are possible without seeing the entire animal closely.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 02:49 PM

I'm used to looking at them with a lot more hair on them, so that is confusing. But it looks older and has some scars so I am going to say older, not sure how old, but there is going to be some real noticeable wear on them teeth when you curl the lips back. The missing eye may explain some of why it's head doesn't look quite right to me, I'm going to say male also, it just looks like one, although not as broad and masculine looking as I think it should. Some of that could be the missing eye, or the thinner, shorter hair, or it could be emaciated or muscles atrophied as Bob says.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/19/23 08:00 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

it’s ears are huge.

Originally Posted by Bob Jameson

I believe the ears look larger due to the atrophy of the under lying muscle mass covering the skull..

Mr. Jameson is right on the money I believe.

The muscle wasting on the skull makes the ears appear oversized in relation to the coyote’s head.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/20/23 02:23 AM

The oversized ear look is something I have noticed in some but not all extremely old females.

The old males always seem to get a big blocky look to their skull as they get on in years.

Here is an old girl from earlier in the thread. She is a prime example of what I'm talking about.

She is also a testament as to just how tough coyotes really are.

Give her a look....

THIS OLD GIRL

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/20/23 04:04 AM

Impressive old girl there. Here is an old male and a female that gave me fits for a while.
The male was constantly attracted to a charred piece of wood flat set. Caught several other yotes in that location. He would walk right by all other sets to pull my pan cover off of the charred wood set. Finally changing the guiding got him caught.Took 10 days. He had a previous broken leg and very worn teeth. Female was a similar struggle. Finally caught her in a blind set.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/20/23 12:56 PM

Good Stuff YG!

Coyotes like those usually force you to think outside of the parameters of your normal routine.

I believe the more canines of that caliber you get to interact with the better trapper you will be in the end.

You can’t develop an "A" game catching second string coyotes.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/20/23 02:06 PM

Originally Posted by Mac

TEJAS
Thanks for sharing.
Looking forward to so trapline pictures.

Mac

Hey Mac!

I hope things are going good up Maine way.

Check in when you get a chance,

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/20/23 02:40 PM

Here is a closer look at the coyote in question. As stated earlier it was a female.

She had a gimp to her left front to match the missing eye on the same side.

I would like to hear how old the Coyote Crew would put this set of choppers at.

[Linked Image]

Take a closer look at the front side wear on the the lower canines. I only notice this on the most senior coyotes.

What happens is the two outside upper incisors that remain wear against the lower canines giving them a flat edge on the front side.

I think this occurs when the molars become really worn down and the jaw becomes out of alignment.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/21/23 08:17 PM

She is definitely eligible for an AARP card.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/21/23 09:14 PM

All she had was a "Life Alert" button around her neck.

It wasn't much help as far as I could tell.......

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/21/23 10:34 PM

Lol, it’s no wonder those calls go out to California.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/21/23 10:37 PM

I really don’t know about a coyote as far as how they’re teeth wear. The only dogs I know of that had teeth like that were all well past 15 .

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/21/23 11:27 PM

That’s old dog for sure. Wonder how many fawns she has seen die? Found this digging around some of my old pics. Don’t remember where I got it from.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/22/23 09:31 AM

Good Morning Coyote Crew!

I usually see fairly equal wear on the upper and lower canine teeth.

I wonder why the lower canines are so much longer than the uppers.

The tips of the lowers are flat like they were filed to look that way.

It would be interesting to know the cause for that kind of wear.

I'd say it's a pretty safe bet she's past eight years old

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/22/23 01:30 PM

I would say that is a very safe bet Tejas.
Had to poke a hole in another one last night.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: bleeohio

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/22/23 04:30 PM

Man yg, you must be on the route 66 of coyote travel. Does the action pick up as we get farther along in the winter or does it drop off?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/22/23 04:56 PM

Depends on how much the thermal guys hunt my bait. Six seasons ago before thermal got big I killed 37 out that window. Last year just 15. But usually gets better but you have to change with the different dynamics in the yotes. You can’t let a pair claim the bait. You must kill one or both or they will keep other yotes away. That’s when scent posts kill them good.

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/23/23 01:15 AM

They definitely kill fawns.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/24/23 04:54 PM

I hope the T-Man Crew had a good Turkey Day!

We’ve been hunting a nocturnal buck that has been eluding us for quite a while now.

Despite our many hours in the stand along with over the top recon we have been unable to pinpoint this deer’s approximate location.

He usually comes in one time a night about an hour and a half after dark or later. Last night he came in at his earliest time yet. He rolled in at 6:30 pm.

We need him to move up his arrival time about thirty minutes or more to get a crack at him.

[Linked Image]

I think he will make the high 70's to low 80's. I believe he is probably nine years old.

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/24/23 05:06 PM

Can you back track him and set up to have a crack at him while legal light ?

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/24/23 05:07 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

That’s old dog for sure. Wonder how many fawns she has seen die? Found this digging around some of my old pics. Don’t remember where I got it from.

[Linked Image]

this ought to be archived

Posted By: Philip Stancel

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/24/23 08:33 PM

I simply cannot see those lines on any of the coyotes I've trapped.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/25/23 11:07 AM

Originally Posted by ks wolfer

Can you back track him and set up to have a crack at him while legal light ?

I have deployed multiple cams in hopes of getting him lined out. Even with that recon I have been unable to determine his line of travel.

I’ve sat multiple scouting days in different locations trying to get closer to his core area, but I believe he doesn’t move far from his bed until night falls.

The newly planted winter wheat fields along with the upcoming rut will hopefully give us the edge we need.

Just like those coyotes, he is that old for a reason.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/25/23 12:18 PM

Good luck on that buck James

They get that old as you well know by being excellent at patterning hunters/people
He is probably laid up listening and watching everything you are doing trying to catch him slipping

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/23 04:31 PM

Thanks BT!

I’ve put a lot days in the field along with recon to catch this old timer on his feet in the daylight.

He has stayed 100% nocturnal up this point.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/23 04:51 PM

Yesterday I watched this old buck win a good fight against a younger rival at only forty yards away.

The old timers know how to use leverage and weight to whip the younger bucks in their prime.

[Linked Image]

Notice the dried velvet on the end of the drop.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/23 06:27 PM

They always said not to pick a fight with an old man because he would hurt or kill you

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/28/23 06:57 PM

That alone is why we kill 8’s and below at max of 4.5. Seen an 120” 8pt manhandle a 140” 3.5 10pt before and never got the 10 on camera again.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 12:22 AM

As far as management goes we let those deer get some age on them to see what kind of potential they might have.

You can’t grow 150-60 class eights when you shoot 120 inch three year olds.

This big eight is from the same location as the ghost deer.

[Linked Image]

This buck is around four years old. He has super long main beams and great G-3’s.

Just imagine what he will look like at seven years old.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 12:48 AM

Why would I want 8’s around if I can keep 10’s around? A 3.5yr old 140-150” 10 is what I’m looking to let grow. Seen way more of those than an 8 at that age. As I’ve said before, seen brute 8’s run off young 10’s. May work differently out there on way more acreage.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 02:16 AM

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

Why would I want 8’s around if I can keep 10’s around?

See exhibit A above.

Take a 160 class ten and put him next to a 60’s eight point and you have your answer.

It’s all about the frame. That is why we want them around.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 02:48 AM

How many acres are you on and do the deer have to roam where you still have access to hunt them?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 05:26 PM

We are on a sizeable amount of acreage WB.

A buck that stays in a certain location could be miles away from his core area by the time the rut is in full swing. This makes it difficult to find a specific deer. Lock down adds another level of difficulty when it comes to locating a certain target.

Our deer density is high, but our buck to doe ratio is one to one. The age class of bucks is spread evenly across the board.
The only time we would ever consider shooting a young 3-4 year old is if he was mortally wounded and/or sick.

We normally have a lot of fighting here. Three or four fights in an afternoon on a winter wheat field is not uncommon.
I certainly don’t see older eights rule the fields when the rut gets rolling.

Dominance is relative to age, weight, & temperament. Testosterone turns up the attitude volume to ten.

A bad hombre is that way regardless of his headgear.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 05:49 PM

Here is a better look at the ghost buck.

He is sticking to his routine like he's punching a time clock on the night shift.

[Linked Image]

The newly planted winter wheat fields along with the upcoming rut will certainly put a new spin on the situation.

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/29/23 11:13 PM

It is amazing what you can see and learn about deer behavior when those green fields come alive in the evening especially around the rut. If I remember rightly the rut heats up right about Christmas. Texas was by far my favorite state to hunt. Always something to hunt from exotics to whitetail. Axis were by far my favorite.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/30/23 06:51 PM

You Betcha” SK!

Green fields are where all the interaction occurs. They become war zones as the rut approaches.

Bucks that don’t normally cross paths find themselves face to face on the field of honor.

Unfortunately several bucks die every year from injuries sustained on the battlefield.

There are a lot of ears back as of late. It will get more serious in the days to come.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 11/30/23 06:58 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

They always said not to pick a fight with an old man because he would hurt or kill you

That's my line

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/23 05:46 PM

We’ve killed a lot of big pigs this year.

I thought the 270 pound sow would hold the record for years to come.

Gordon Whitefoot didn’t get to keep the title of Top Sow very long.

The Heavyweight Champion Sow Belt now belongs to Big Bertha.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/23 06:17 PM

Big Bertha weighed in at 302 pounds at 5’ 3”.

[Linked Image]

That puts her at the number two spot behind Big Red at 417.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/23 06:24 PM

I bet you could get some bacon off of that one

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/23 07:42 PM

That is a big ole sow. Looks like she is piggy?

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/23 10:37 PM

Looks like your ranch is growing some super hogs James.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/01/23 11:25 PM

Be good to get that one off the feed bill

Biggest one I have ever killed was a 309# sow that had 9 full term piglets in her (days from being born)

I would pull the backstraps off of that one and throw them on the smoker

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/02/23 01:47 PM

I think the pig population here depends on greatly what the ranches do around us.

If our neighbors don’t feed as much as we do the sounders end up here in short order.

They can cover a lot of ground in a short period of time when in search of an all you can eat buffet.

If the properties around us don’t trap and gun hogs then the population spills over to our acreage in the blink of an eye.

I would bet the constant supply of protein has a lot to do with the size and weight increase over the years.

Here is another big sow than is still on the payroll.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Golf ball

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/02/23 02:29 PM

The ranch I hunted in Florida gives you an ataboy for killing a piggy sow. They kill about 500 head a year and I think they should be killing a 1000 .
James how many are you taking off that property every year ?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/02/23 06:54 PM

I wish we had kept a running total from the start GB.

It's not the number of pigs, but the number of big breeders that has made us sit up and take notice.

We put a lot of them out of commission, but as you know it's a war of attrition.

We'll continue to terminate with extreme prejudice.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/03/23 11:29 AM

Good Sunday Morning T-Man Crew!

Getting ready to head out to the deer stand.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/03/23 11:38 AM

This old buck has managed to elude us for the last season or two.

He would tend to work does in out of the way spots where we couldn’t get on him.

I took these photos just a few days back. He was within bow range.

[Linked Image]

Notice the features an old timer like this has.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/03/23 12:25 PM

Slipping in his old age

Hope y'all are able to get him

I would definitely whack him

7+?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/03/23 05:28 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

7+?

I think he is nine years old now BT.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/03/23 05:43 PM

Is this a high fenced place? Some of the deer and hogs you post just don’t seem like the private/public land kind of size. Not saying they’re not, just thinking those deer cross the property line and they’re dead unless y’all have like 20k acres or something crazy like that.
We have some mature deer, but not like those you post.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/03/23 06:10 PM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by BTLowry

7+?

I think he is nine years old now BT.

Looks pretty good for his age

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/04/23 08:46 PM

We were hunting a big deer with forked G-2’s last night.

When we got out of the stand and headed back to camp I noticed a good buck getting a drink at the water’s edge.

As he turned his head we could see it was the deer we were after. He never moved as we paused to snap a quick photo.

[Linked Image]

That’s not a bad way to end the day in my book.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/05/23 01:54 AM

Is there some reason you didn't shoot him then? Also, why did you get out of the stand before dark? I always sit my hunters until it is too dark to shoot, I don't know how many deer and elk we have killed in that last five minutes of shooting light, when the hunters were ready to leave... but it's been a lot.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/05/23 03:07 PM

Originally Posted by bearcat2

Is there some reason you didn't shoot him then?

It was well after legal shooting light BC2.

We will have plenty of time to catch him out and about in the coming weeks.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 10:30 AM

The rut just kicked off a few days back. There are a lot of big deer working the brush now.

[Linked Image]

What does the T-Man Crew think this deer will score ?

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 12:43 PM

133

I am no good at guessing scores

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 01:15 PM

147.5 " wide good mass looks like shorter tines

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 01:45 PM

As Rick said, he is heavy and fairly wide but short tines so he won't score well. I'd say 130 maybe, but to me he is a better buck than some of those spindly, long tined ones you have posted that will score much better. I like mass, to me a massive buck just looks bigger and more mature than one with a lot of tine length but not the mass.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 04:35 PM

He had over 38 inches of mass.

The left beam’s first and fourth measurement was 5-2 & 5.

His main beams were 23-6 and 24-6. The frame alone scored over 108

That might narrow down the score for folks.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 04:58 PM

You sure have some good mature bucks down that way James. Some of those old boys carry their ears laid back to show they have an attitude all day long I bet.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 07:27 PM

With a 108” frame assuming that includes an approximate 21 4/8” spread. I’m coming up with around 157”. At first glance I would of guessed low 140’s.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 07:36 PM

This is what I expect a 160” buck to look like.

Son killed this one in 2021.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 08:12 PM

That's a great looking buck your son shot,2020 I shot a 158" nine pointer if he would have had a G4 on both sides he would have gone 162"ish.

Posted By: mercmaster

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/07/23 10:22 PM

152 4/8

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/08/23 12:05 AM

Okay, with a 108 frame I'm going to guess him at 149

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/08/23 10:04 AM

The heavy beam buck scores 161 - 5.

It's all about the frame fellas.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/08/23 10:41 AM

Missed by 13" didn't give enough on mass and beam length.Morning TEJAS.....

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/08/23 12:53 PM

Like I said, I'm not good at scoring them

That is a nice buck James

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/23 11:33 AM

If ya’ll like the look of that last deer here is a buck with a bit more distance between the beams.

[Linked Image]

I'd be interested to see if someone could come up with inside spread on this one.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/23 02:38 PM

29.5

Posted By: ks wolfer

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/23 06:38 PM

32.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/23 09:42 PM

27 1/4”

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/09/23 09:57 PM

24.5

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 12:59 AM

I think this was the thread bait stations were discussed. So I have this spot where I have dumped carcasses for a month or two now. Every carcass has been decimated since I started dumping until this week. This week I dumped 3 deer and beavers and none have been touched hardly at all. Not even by buzzards. This is the back side of a pond dam bordering a large field and a completely undisturbed head of woods. Normally plenty of coyotes, cats, fox, and other furbearers using the area. Any explanations for the sudden off switch? Rifle deer season has been in for the duration of my dumping so I don’t think gut piles are to blame

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 01:40 AM

About time someone else has the same experience I have, lol. Deer, hogs, etc…sometimes buzzards might eat, sometimes they don’t. The issue is when they don’t, nothing does. Haven’t had anything eaten by anything with 4 legs all Summer including all the way to now.
Gonna definitely be following to see if anyone else has had it happened since I mentioned it before.

Posted By: sportsman94

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 01:50 AM

I’ve seen it a couple times on different properties Wannabe. Can’t explain it, but they will sit there and mummify. Funny thing is I live less than a mile away and have buzzards in my yard every day trying to find scraps I’m giving to the chickens.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 02:19 AM

Originally Posted by Crappiekiller

27 1/4”

Good Guess CK!

He was 27 3/8 @ 163 +

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 10:49 AM

Originally Posted by sportsman94

I think this was the thread bait stations were discussed.

You are correct S94.

There is a lot on bait stations in the previous pages of this thread.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 10:59 AM

Originally Posted by sportsman94

I have this spot where I have dumped carcasses for a month or two now.

Every carcass has been decimated since I started dumping until this week.

This week I dumped 3 deer and beavers and none have been touched hardly at all.

Any explanations for the sudden off switch?

That is a good question.

I’m looking forward to hearing what other folks think the cause might be.

There are a lot of factors that come into play where bait stations are concerned.

Little things can make a big difference on how successful it is.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/10/23 11:41 AM

Originally Posted by sportsman94

I think this was the thread bait stations were discussed. So I have this spot where I have dumped carcasses for a month or two now. Every carcass has been decimated since I started dumping until this week. This week I dumped 3 deer and beavers and none have been touched hardly at all. Not even by buzzards. This is the back side of a pond dam bordering a large field and a completely undisturbed head of woods. Normally plenty of coyotes, cats, fox, and other furbearers using the area. Any explanations for the sudden off switch? Rifle deer season has been in for the duration of my dumping so I don’t think gut piles are to blame

The only thing I have ever heard of that nothing would touch was a cow that had been given a bunch of meds (antibiotics maybe, can't remember).

A bait pile that nothing would touch is puzzling.

Like James, I will be interested to see what others have to say

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/15/23 09:55 AM

We're back after the Ghost Buck.
He was caught getting off his bed just before twilight a few days back. Old school recon finally pinpointed his location.
We set up on him in a light rain the day after, but he didn’t show up until dead dark.His silhouette on the horizon was the only way to identify him.

The rut is in full swing. That has not changed his nocturnal pattern a bit aside from his one daylight appearance.
I’m pretty confident this buck doesn’t move one step off his bed until twilight.

He finally showed up on camera for the first time in the early morning hours.

Yesterday morning he rolled in at 5:30 am. That is a full hour and a half before daylight.

[Linked Image]

This buck has monster beams.

[Linked Image]

This morning we have a steady light rain. That’s a good thing. The deer were moving heavy at 2:00 am when I got up to start the day. That is a bad thing.

Regardless, we will be in the stand by six this morning with our nose to the wind and our eyes along the skyline.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/15/23 12:53 PM

Good luck James

Rain supposed to start after lunch here

Our rut is long passed up here

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/15/23 03:04 PM

Gettem Tejas! Haven’t had a yote on bait here since 11-22. Lots of thermal road hunting here and after deer season everybody is a yote hunter. I contribute some of the lack of visits to all the activity on my bait. I have at least 8 cats, three possums and two skunks hitting my bait.
All the resident yotes are dead so when a new yote finds the bait all that movement makes them nervous I think. I like non targets on my bait as they are great advertising for yotes, but I think you can have to many in my situation. 25 yards from my shed the yotes are already nervous. Doesn’t take much for them to decide it’s not worth their time. Food is easy to get right now.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/15/23 03:07 PM

Last nights visitors.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/16/23 11:03 AM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

Good luck James.

Thanks BT.

I’m confident I know where he beds down for the daylight hours.

It’s just a matter of him moving out of his safe zone before it gets dark.

We can’t get too close to his bedroom for risk of bumping him out of the area.

If that happened we would be back to square one.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/17/23 11:18 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Gettem Tejas! Haven’t had a yote on bait here since 11-22. Lots of thermal road hunting here and after deer season everybody is a yote hunter. I contribute some of the lack of visits to all the activity on my bait. I have at least 8 cats, three possums and two skunks hitting my bait.
All the resident yotes are dead so when a new yote finds the bait all that movement makes them nervous I think. I like non targets on my bait as they are great advertising for yotes, but I think you can have to many in my situation. 25 yards from my shed the yotes are already nervous. Doesn’t take much for them to decide it’s not worth their time. Food is easy to get right now.

YG, the only time I see cats is on the bait when the coyote traffic is very low.

And I never get tired of seeing your contestants resting peacefully on the nice frosty ground.

That looks like a good way to spend an evening.

The Ghost Buck is still making tracks.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/17/23 11:56 AM

With the rut in full swing the resident coyote population will get a temporary reprieve.

Here is a solid South Texas buck I thought the T-Man Crew might like to take a look at.

What do you folks think this old buck will score?

[Linked Image]

I’ll be interested to see if someone can come up with the right number.

Posted By: bearcat2

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/17/23 12:05 PM

I'm not a great judge of scores and it's always harder to tell in pictures, but I'm going to say 161.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/17/23 01:05 PM

195"

Posted By: trapperman222

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/18/23 02:31 AM

Those ears are awful droopy. Something fishy going on. I throw the BS flag. Is this a Rompala Buck?

Posted By: trapperman222

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/18/23 02:35 AM

Something about a 135 lb buck with a nice rack. Just sayin 155 is my guess.

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/18/23 02:52 AM

188

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/18/23 02:53 AM

Those bucks are not the hill country little bucks with big antlers,lots of feed and minerals most are 200 lb live weight.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/18/23 02:58 AM

Having seen the price list, more money than I care to spend. But still a nice buck.
Gonna say 50” on the mains.
Give him 19” spread.
Mass at the bases is thick, but loses it a little going up, but the fact the tines are close together it’s going to give a little more than actually has…so I’ll give 34”.
Tines, oh boy, 32” left side and 34” right side.
169” total. Only thing I’m really not sure about which could be plus or minus a couple of inches are the main beams.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/18/23 11:34 AM

There are a couple of good guesses so far.

Keep in mind the ear is about seven inches long.

That gives you a good gauge to work with.

These old bucks will weigh in at 200-250 on the hoof depending on the time of year.

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/19/23 11:31 AM

Thank's for the little tips,the more I look at the G6 and don't know if it's long enough to count and if there's a matching one on right antler,I'm changing my score by 1" to 194".

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/19/23 08:01 PM

Surprised me but I’m coming up with around 190”.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/21/23 02:49 PM

CK, Rick Olson, & T67 were all pretty close.
He scored 193 and change.
Good eye fellas.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/22/23 09:04 PM

The old Ghost Buck finally slipped up.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: Slipknot

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 01:00 AM

He sure did . Nice South Texas buck.That dude has some long main beams.You get him or a client?

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 01:15 AM

Wow, more pics please!

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 01:27 AM

Congrats James

More pics and some detail of the hunt please

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 03:29 PM

Originally Posted by Slipknot

Nice South Texas buck.That dude has some long main beams.You get him or a client?

This wasn’t my kill Slip.

And yes, his beams are really long. This buck had zero ground shrinkage.

We believe he is around nine years old

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 04:00 PM

Originally Posted by Tony1967

Wow, more pics please!

They have a FB and IG page. Showed up on my feed one day on IG and saw the bucks he was posting. Some huge deer on that place!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 05:54 PM

Originally Posted by BTLowry

More pics and some detail of the hunt please

BT, we really wanted to get some good field photos of him before we started the hunt. He had other plans.

Here is the recap.
Unfortunately I was unable to sit in on the final hunt.
Here is the short version of the final minutes.

To start off with the old buck came in with only fifteen minutes of good shooting light left. He came in from the opposite direction he was expected. That is no surprise on either count. The big surprise was that he showed up at all. That was only the third time he was seen in daylight this year. This was the last evening hunt, and the best opportunity to get a shot at this elusive deer.

He rolled in just before dark tending a doe. This old fella took date night very seriously. No other suitors were allowed anywhere near his new girlfriend. It's a miracle his rack remained unbroken with all the fighting we have witnessed in the last few weeks.

The doe tempted him out of the protection of the brush on to an old out of the way sendero that crossed though his stomping grounds. He probably wouldn't have moved before dark if it wasn't for her,The blind was basically set up in the buck’s bedroom.

They got a good broadside shot at him around 125 yards out.

It was a good death, as it should be.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 05:57 PM

Originally Posted by Tony1967

Wow, more pics please!

You Betha T67!

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 06:01 PM

This is tricky one. Coming up with a close number on this old timer should test your scoring skills.

I try to show these deer where you get a good overall view of the rack.

What do you think The Ghost Buck taped out at?

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 08:11 PM

191"

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/23/23 09:16 PM

I’m going with 188 again

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/24/23 12:23 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

Originally Posted by BTLowry

More pics and some detail of the hunt please

BT, we really wanted to get some good field photos of him before we started the hunt. He had other plans.

Here is the recap.
Unfortunately I was unable to sit in on the final hunt.
Here is the short version of the final minutes.

To start off with the old buck came in with only fifteen minutes of good shooting light left. He came in from the opposite direction he was expected. That is no surprise on either count. The big surprise was that he showed up at all. That was only the third time he was seen in daylight this year. This was the last evening hunt, and the best opportunity to get a shot at this elusive deer.

He rolled in just before dark tending a doe. This old fella took date night very seriously. No other suitors were allowed anywhere near his new girlfriend. It's a miracle his rack remained unbroken with all the fighting we have witnessed in the last few weeks.

The doe tempted him out of the protection of the brush on to an old out of the way sendero that crossed though his stomping grounds. He probably wouldn't have moved before dark if it wasn't for her,The blind was basically set up in the buck’s bedroom.

They got a good broadside shot at him around 125 yards out.

It was a good death, as it should be.

You brought up a point we’ve noticed as well. I’m sure our ratio isn’t as dialed in as y’all’s, but our bigger antlered deer tend not to bust tines. Generally if they get to 160” or better they keep their antlers intact. Why do you think that is? Do you think others don’t challenge them? Or do you think the fights are short lived. I knew of a buck that we never got a pic of with another buck was around. Rattling would send him the opposite direction. More than 3 does around and he’d leave. We have yet to kill a “big” deer with broken tines or antlers. We have a ton of younger bucks with broken racks, but the bigger antlered buck are whole.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/24/23 12:25 AM

And your probably looking at close to 70” or more in just beams and spread on that buck.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/24/23 06:10 PM

Good Question WB.

When I get at a stopping point I'll give you my take on what might be the possible cause for what you are seeing

It is just a series guesses after a lot of observations over the years, but I do see some definite trends.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/25/23 02:16 PM

Merry Christmas T-Man Crew !!

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/25/23 02:26 PM

Merry Christmas Tejas!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/25/23 05:56 PM

Good Question WB.

Originally Posted by Wanna Be

You brought up a point we’ve noticed as well. I’m sure our ratio isn’t as dialed in as y’all’s, but our bigger antlered deer tend not to bust tines. Generally if they get to 160” or better they keep their antlers intact. Why do you think that is? Do you think others don’t challenge them? Or do you think the fights are short lived. I knew of a buck that we never got a pic of with another buck was around. Rattling would send him the opposite direction. More than 3 does around and he’d leave. We have yet to kill a “big” deer with broken tines or antlers. We have a ton of younger bucks with broken racks, but the bigger antlered buck are whole.

Why do you see so many young deer broke?

The young guns all have something to prove.They also have thin antlers compared to the older deer.
There are probably more bucks in that age class as well. That is most likely the reason you see so many broke up young deer.

I believe bucks are at their prime at 4/5 years old. That is when I see the most antler damage from mature deer in general. Testosterone is probably as high as it gets during those years. Jet black hocks all the way to the hoof are common here on hard rutting bucks.

As they get older I see a shift to self-preservation if you will. Older bucks try to keep does well away from other suitors. Lockdown is a prime example of this.
I see the older deer will often time set up shop in a relatively small area to work the girls. The less he travels the fewer fights he will probably have to engage in.

By the time they get to six years old they have established a ranking. Their reputation allows them to buffalo a lot of young deer and bucks in their prime that could probably beat them in a fight. I see this all the time. Their past fights and reputation hold a lot of weight in the field up to a point.

Fields are a war zone. If you have a lot of fields and a good ratio you are going to have a lot of fighting on the green.
This is the last place an old buck wants his hot doe to visit.

In this neck of the brush it's a race to kill mature target deer before they break regardless of their size or age.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/25/23 06:23 PM

Yea sir, I have seen some knock down drag out fights. In fact, I don’t think a human could mimic the intensity or duration with a set of rattling antlers.
I still have a few bucks we’re trying to “save” for next season. We have a little over 3 weeks left of the season with not much deer hunting going on on our place. It’s just now trying to keep them happy and fed to keep them on our place. These could be really nice bucks next year. One is a 10 with a split G2, one is a 10 that’s missing a brow tine. We aren’t sure if it’s broke, or never grew. He still looks decent. Then we have an 8 we were going to take until he came by the stand and if given another year, he should be a very nice scoring 8 for down here.
All but the 10 or technically 9pt without the brow are all intact. All look run down as heck right now too. Peanuts are my feed of choice, mainly because it’s free. I only put out corn for the carbs during the rut. Protein (peanuts) the rest of the year.
Now these aren’t y’all’s deer, but these are definitely trophies for here.

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/26/23 12:56 AM

Merry Christmas

James you are probably on to something with that theory about the bucks

Posted By: Tony1967

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/26/23 01:02 AM

So what did that ghost buck score?

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/26/23 11:46 AM

Originally Posted by Tony1967

So what did that ghost buck score?

188 & change

Good Guess T67 !

Posted By: rick olson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 12/26/23 08:01 PM

Yep,good guess T67 missed again within 2 1/2" great buck,what were the beams?I gave them 27"?

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/05/24 12:13 AM

James you busy hunting deer?
Take a vacation?

Hope you are good whatever you have been up to

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/07/24 10:55 AM

Thanks BT!

There is a lot going on around here this time of the year.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/07/24 11:04 AM

There is a lot going on in the brush as well.

Here is a buck standing his ground on the field of battle.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/07/24 01:45 PM

I figured you were so busy with the deer hunting that you didn't have time to post

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/07/24 05:57 PM

On The Hunt

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/08/24 12:21 PM

Young Gun

Posted By: mercmaster

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/08/24 02:54 PM

^^^^^^ gone be a dandy

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/08/24 03:18 PM

I named this young buck Stickers.

He is really feeling his oats on the secondary rut.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/09/24 01:43 PM

Awesome up and comer Tejas. Getting lots of outside pressure on my bait but one slipped through the thermal
army. #12 for the year, #154 out the kill window.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/10/24 02:52 AM

When did the thermal hunters hit your neck of the woods YG?

Do they call, run the roads, or shoot off baits?

Are there a lot of these folks out there?

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/10/24 04:05 AM

Every farmer and his kids have a thermal around here anymore. There are some really talented yote killers here. But the vast majority are just after their pic with a few dead yotes for facebook. After deer season it’s really bad here. I sat out in my bait last year and had two different trucks thermal me and haul butt. They all know I kill a few yotes so they are always trying to pick up an easy one here.
We have guys killing 30 or 40 yotes a year who don’t even know which end the turd falls out of. I’ve had some trouble with them shooting yotes in traps to get their pics. Bad thing is they waste the yote when they were worth something.
Neighbor got busted shooting deer at night with his thermal a month ago. Heard him shoot three times Saturday night. Guess he hasn’t been to court yet.
This has got worse every year and my kill numbers reflect that. But with the fur market in the crapper it’s about the only yote control we have. Sad as that is. Most call but they take a yote anyway they can.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/10/24 04:16 AM

Got bored so I decided to take up deer hunting. Haven’t done much in about 13 years. Killed 13 so far, 9 the last weekend in December. Couple of big girls in the bunch. 450 bushmaster and Cva crossfire.
[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/11/24 11:18 AM

Nice Work YG!

What do your bucks and does weigh in at up there?

That one girl looks like a real heavyweight.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/11/24 12:30 PM

Good job Rob! Yote numbers on my trapline are way down( but you wouldn't think that now...breeding season). Some farms that kick out 5-10 coyotes have produced 1-2 ....some none. My treasure farms that used to kick out 10-20 coyotes are down to 5-7. Weird. And thermal hunters
are possibly one angle that covers this situation. It seems everyone has thermal gear. One guy who does real well with the thermal stuff said he gave up because the number of coyotes is down. So there might be something else in the mix of things with the low population of yotes. Lord knows it ain't the lack of deer...lol.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/11/24 03:28 PM

Tejas two of those girls dressed 145lb. That’s big for here. Biggest I ever killed dressed 152lb

I think a lot of the thermal pressure is disrupting the family unit. They really effect the population as they can hunt till March 15th. Any female killed after Feb that is pregnant means no litter that year. That happens on a large scale for 4 or 5 years and it has to have some effect on population. Younger females breeding equals poor mothers,more pup mortality and smaller litters.
We even have outfitters offering thermal yote hunts just east of us.
The decline in the yote population here also was at the same time the bobcat population exploded. More litter survival do to less yote predation???

We had a at our gun range that had 4 kittens. Everybody is getting pics of cats on the game cams.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/11/24 11:37 PM

Good info Rob.

Posted By: BigBlackBirds

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/12/24 03:03 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

think a lot of the thermal pressure is disrupting the family unit. They really effect the population as they can hunt till March 15th. Any female killed after Feb that is pregnant means no litter that year. That happens on a large scale for 4 or 5 years and it has to have some effect on population. Younger females breeding equals poor mothers,more pup mortality and smaller litters. .

At least you have a season. It’s turned into year round fiasco here. I own thermal but it’s reached point it likely should be substantially curtailed here.

Posted By: Wanna Be

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/12/24 03:20 AM

I’m trying to make them extinct down here and y’all complaining about low numbers, lol.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/12/24 12:26 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

The decline in the yote population here also was at the same time the bobcat population exploded. More litter survival do to less yote predation???

YG , a few years back we had a flash flood that wiped out our rabbit population.

The bobcats all but disappeared shortly after that. At the same time coyote numbers remained steady.
The absence of rabbit was of no consequence to Wile E.

Unlike the coyote, the cats here appear to be highly dependent on cottontails as a food source even though we have a huge rodent population.

These last two years rabbits have made a great recovery almost back to their previous numbers. The cat population mirrored that increase seemingly overnight.

It may not be the main cause for more bobcat sightings in your neck of the woods, but it could certainly be a factor.

That is just what I've noticed down along the border.

Posted By: Bob Jameson

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/12/24 03:48 PM

Primary or preferred food sources can certainly impact some animals / predator populations. It just stands to reason. Acquired taste and certain nutritional needs are innate attributes I believe. I recall a study I read years ago regarding Artic fox and the lemming population in Alaska. Same effect, low lemming population poor reproduction of the fox.

Or if the fox is bred, she may abort the litter size by cannibalism if she determines that the food source isn't adequate to raise a full litter. I also think nature may also have a way thru the animals DNA that when it perceives certain nutritional deprivations to the body it may affect their reproduction or how many offspring are produced during those lean years..

Just my thoughts.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/14/24 03:25 PM

I’ve been after this big guy with a camera for quite a while now.

Hopefully I will get some better photos in the near future.

It’s good to see a buck of this caliber hard at work in the field.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: BTLowry

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/14/24 06:53 PM

Good gracious that looks like a young elk

20deg and snow flurries up here

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/14/24 08:10 PM

Tejas the rabbit numbers here aren’t that great. Have been low for a lot of years. What I see is the cats exploiting another resource. Squirrels. Squirrels here have a few predators such as hawks, owls and I’ve seen some evidence of coons killing squirrels at night. I’ve never thought of yotes having any impact on the squirrel population. Don’t know how many pics of cats I’ve seen carrying a squirrel. I don’t know much about these things it’s just what I’ve noticed.

Man that buck is nice!!! Is he a big 8? Those are my favorite bucks. Big and simple.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/14/24 11:53 PM

Rob, squirrels here are BOOMING! All over every where! Feral cat pop. is up also but I had to put the hammer down on the squirrels around the house as literally you'd see 8-10 in your yard at a time. Now they are filtering in from around the area again...it won't be long before they are back.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/15/24 01:10 AM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Man that buck is nice!!! Is he a big 8? Those are my favorite bucks. Big and simple.

He is a straight eight with one small sticker on the right beam and left G2.

I believe he has a bigger frame than the 70’s eight with the fork & extra I posted earlier.

Hopefully he will not get into a late rut fight and break off before I get some good photos of him.

Posted By: Swamp Wolf

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/15/24 01:37 AM

Originally Posted by TEJAS

I’ve been after this big guy with a camera for quite a while now.

Hopefully I will get some better photos in the near future.

It’s good to see a buck of this caliber hard at work in the field.

[Linked Image]

A rear view of the rack makes an impressive buck even more impressive. That is a FINE rascal!

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/15/24 02:48 PM

Here is another good buck that came in for a visit.

I call him flop because he hurt his left ear in a fight and it hangs down.

Since this photo was taken he has broken off most of his left side.

[Linked Image]

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/16/24 07:57 PM

Originally Posted by Swamp Wolf

A rear view of the rack makes an impressive buck even more impressive. That is a FINE rascal!

You know the old saying Swamp. They always look bigger gong away.

That is usually the case, especially when they are running away with someone shooting at them.

I think this particular buck is much more impressive head on. His weak side is facing the camera in the above photo and his head is down. His 2’s & 3’s also slant way forward so they look much shorter than they really are.

With the rut winding down the focus will soon turn to feed.

Hopefully that will give me the edge I need to get within camera range.

Posted By: TEJAS

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/17/24 06:20 PM

Originally Posted by yoteguts

Everybody is getting pics of cats on the game cams.

Here is something you might find interesting YG.

I have also noticed when coyotes are present in big numbers the resident cats keep a very low profile.

They are in no way afraid of Wile E. I think they just choose to avoid the dog pound when they are at full force.

Bob is there, he just limits his movements I believe.

Once the coyotes have been thinned out of the area, or there is a population shift, the cats start showing up on the cam.

I have noticed this trend year after year. Keep in mind this is recon on a bait station cam.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/24 03:12 AM

That is a very interesting observation Tejas. That could very well be the case here.
My experience with cats is just starting. Hardly a week goes by that I don’t get pics of dead yotes from the thermal guys I know. Then at the same time I’m getting game cam pics of cats
There are a lot of thermal hunters here and a ton of deer hunter game cameras out. Interesting how they intersect.

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/24 10:29 AM

Rob how many of the thermal hunters do you think are using suppressors? Yeah, I know the rules ...just wondering because around here a loud boom typically alarms folks yet I don't see/hear any push back from folks and media???

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/18/24 10:45 PM

None that I know of. There is so much thermal hunting here people are used to shooting at night.
That’s why my neighbor thought it was a good idea to poach deer with his thermal. He got busted. What an idiot. I’m sure more of this goes on than people know.

Posted By: Crappiekiller

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/19/24 05:59 PM

We are not allowed to use Thermal till February, I’m sure some of it still goes on year round though.

Posted By: yoteguts

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/31/24 10:32 PM

Killed ole three leg last night. The field around my bait is flooded with geese roosting on the water. Yote action usually picks up when that happens

[Linked Image]

Posted By: MChewk

Re: COYOTE CARNAGE – SOUTH TEXAS BRUSH COUNTRY - 01/31/24 11:06 PM

Nice work Rob! Been catching a few here too....livestock guy that likes to keep them thinned out. Walking my tail off with this mud.