Submitted by Michael Leary
October 25, 2015 1:00 a.m.
Editor’s Note: We thank Michael Leary for sharing these award winning photos. Back in the days when the island was sparsely populated, Michael delighted in exploring the woods and waterways of Amelia. His deep appreciation of the island’s natural beauty is reflected in his interest in preservation of our natural environment. We thank Michael for his contribution to the Fernandina Observer.
Awesome pictures Mike! Thank you…
Great photos….I have never seen one here….
Mike-
Where did you take these great pictures? I know there are 2 hanging out at the airport and a few in Ft Clinch State Park and the Greenway.
Jim, thank you for the inquiry. In the interest of protecting sensitive Amelia wildlife I rarely disclose their location. Coyote range the entire island and are well established having been first observed and photographed in 2005. They are adaptive, elusive and wary creatures not often revealing their presence except for a fleeting glance as they cross a field or roadway. The images were captured after patient waits from concealed natural blinds.
I have a question how does he survive in the woods on the island?
Coyotes are thriving on Amelia with expanding populations that prey on just about everything day and night. As opportunistic feeders with a varied diet that includes scavenging carrion (road kill). Typically carnivores but, Coyote will also consume insects, fruits, berries, and prickly pear cactus. Preferred fair includes deer, rabbits, mice, squirrels, birds, amphibians, lizards and even fish. On Amelia, because they are abundant, Whitetail Deer would make up a large portion of their diet. Predation of domestic cats and dogs is not uncommon.
Coyote are well established in urban communities like Jacksonville and Chicago, thus very adaptable to living in close proximity to humans. Amelia is highly suitable to Coyote. Look for them in your neighborhood.