The coyote or prairie wolf is a member of the dog family. In size and shape the coyote is like a medium-sized collie dog. It lives on rodents, rabbits and beetles. It also preys on small domestic livestock and so settlers did what they could to exterminate the creature. Its hearing is very acute and has used to to avoid danger. They are found in deserts and mountains. An adult coyote can reach speeds of 40 mph. At night it howls to keep in touch with other coyotes in the area.