Coyotes are cunning, adaptable predators, but they’re not invincible. In fact, some unexpected animals have the courage—or the muscle—to send a coyote running. Whether it’s sheer size, sharp defenses, or strategic teamwork, these creatures can hold their own against this wily predator. Here are 14 surprising animals that can scare off a coyote and steal the spotlight for bravery.
1. Donkeys Protect Their Herds Like Pros
Donkeys may look docile, but they have zero patience for coyotes. With powerful kicks and loud braying, they act as guardians for livestock. Farmers often keep donkeys in pastures specifically because their bold demeanor makes coyotes think twice about attacking. Talk about an unexpected hero with a serious attitude.
2. Geese Are Feathered Security Guards
Geese aren’t just garden decorations—they’re fiercely territorial. These loud, aggressive birds will charge at intruders, wings flapping and honking like an avian alarm system. A pack of geese is enough to make even a bold coyote reconsider its dinner plans.
3. Llamas Stand Tall Against Coyotes
Llamas aren’t just for trekking or wool—they’re fearless protectors of the flock. These tall, vigilant creatures will chase off coyotes and even spit to defend their territory. Their imposing height and no-nonsense attitude make them surprisingly effective guardians.
4. Kangaroos Pack a Punch
Coyotes would be wise to avoid any close encounters with kangaroos. These marsupials are known for their powerful hind legs, which can deliver bone-crushing kicks. While they don’t share territory with coyotes, a hypothetical match-up wouldn’t end well for the latter.
5. Roosters Sound the Alarm
Roosters might be small, but their bravery is unmatched. They’ll fiercely protect their flock of hens, often charging at predators far larger than themselves. Their loud crowing also serves as an alarm, alerting the rest of the barnyard to a coyote’s approach.
6. Badgers Fight Fearlessly
Badgers are tough, solitary animals with a ferocious fighting style. Known for their sharp claws and fearless demeanor, they won’t back down from a confrontation. Coyotes, despite their cleverness, rarely want to tangle with such a scrappy opponent.
7. Emus Are All About Intimidation
These giant, flightless birds may look awkward, but they can deliver powerful kicks and have a strong survival instinct. Standing as tall as a human, emus can intimidate coyotes simply by towering over them—and if that’s not enough, one kick could seal the deal.
8. Goats Form Protective Groups
Coyotes might target goats, but they often underestimate the protective instincts of these animals. Goats will band together and use their sharp horns to fend off predators, proving that strength in numbers is a strategy even coyotes struggle to outwit.
9. Owls Bring the Nighttime Fear Factor
Coyotes may roam under the cover of darkness, but owls rule the night. These silent predators can swoop in unexpectedly, startling coyotes. While owls rarely pose a direct threat, their eerie presence and sharp talons can send smaller predators into retreat.
10. Wolverines Are All Muscle and Fury
Wolverines are infamous for their sheer ferocity. Despite their small size, these mammals can take down prey much larger than themselves. A coyote would have a hard time winning against a wolverine’s razor-sharp claws and relentless determination.
11. Turkeys Show Strength in Numbers
While one turkey might not scare off a coyote, a flock of them can be a formidable force. Turkeys are known to mob predators, flapping wings, pecking, and creating a chaotic scene that often overwhelms coyotes. They’re like the unrelenting flash mob of the bird world.
12. Horses Deliver Devastating Kicks
Horses don’t just flee from predators—they fight back. With a single kick from their powerful hind legs, they can send a coyote flying. Their size and strength make them an intimidating presence in any pasture, and coyotes know it’s not worth the risk.
13. Raccoons Turn Into Tiny Titans
Raccoons may seem cute and harmless, but they’re surprisingly bold when cornered. They use their sharp claws and teeth to fight off predators, often surprising coyotes with their aggressive defense tactics. These nocturnal daredevils are no easy target.
14. Peacocks Go Full Drama Mode
Peacocks may seem too fancy to be fighters, but they can be surprisingly aggressive when their territory is threatened. They’ll puff up their feathers, scream loudly, and even chase intruders. A coyote might not be scared of a peacock’s size, but the dramatic display can still be enough to drive them away.