When it comes to wild game, most hunters are familiar with eating deer, elk, rabbit, or even wild boar. But every once in a while, a different question pops up:
Can you eat coyote meat? And should you?

The short answer? Yes, you can eat coyote meat — but whether you should depends on a few important factors. Let’s break it all down, from safety concerns and flavor to cultural stigma and preparation tips.

Is Coyote Meat Safe to Eat?

From a biological standpoint, coyote meat is technically edible. However, there are important health precautions you need to take when considering can you eat coyote meat:

✔️ Must Be Thoroughly Cooked

Coyotes are omnivores and scavengers, which means they carry a higher risk of parasites and diseases such as:

  • Trichinella (trichinosis)
  • Echinococcus (tapeworms)
  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Rabies (though rare in cooked meat)

To eliminate these risks, coyote meat must be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F — ideally closer to 170°F for peace of mind.

What Does Coyote Meat Taste Like?

Here’s the honest truth: coyote doesn’t taste like chicken. Most who’ve tried it describe it as:

  • Strong or gamey
  • Greasy
  • Comparable to raccoon, fox, or very lean mutton

If prepared poorly, it can have an unpleasant aftertaste. However, with proper trimming, marination, and slow cooking, some adventurous eaters say coyote meat can be palatable — even tasty — especially in tacos, chili, or heavily seasoned stews.

Why Do Most People Avoid Eating Coyote?

There’s a strong cultural stigma against eating predators, especially ones like coyotes that scavenge. Here’s why people typically answer no when asked can you eat coyote meat:

  • Perception of being “dirty” or diseased
  • Fear of parasites
  • Lack of tradition — most cultures don’t have recipes or customs involving coyote
  • Unpleasant taste or texture (if not prepared well)

It’s more common for hunters to skin coyotes for fur, not for meat consumption.

Are There Ethical or Conservation Reasons to Eat Coyote?

This is a nuanced topic. Here are both sides:

👍 Pro-Eating Argument

  • If you kill it, eating it avoids waste. So can you eat coyote meat? Yes, avoid waste.
  • Eating invasive or overpopulated species can be seen as environmentally responsible.
  • It supports a full-use mentality that aligns with many hunters’ values.

👎 Counterpoint

  • In areas where coyotes are hunted for population control, not everyone wants or needs to consume them.
  • There’s no significant conservation benefit to eating coyote meat specifically, since hunting itself is often the control tool.

Bottom line: if you’re comfortable eating it and do it safely and respectfully, there’s no conservation downside. Rather skip the coyote dinner and still enjoy the hunt? Read also: https://monsterwhitetails.ca/why-hunting-coyotes-is-good-for-conservation/

Tips for Cooking Coyote Meat (If You Dare)

If you’re brave enough to try coyote, follow these prep tips:

  • Field dress it cleanly and remove glands and fat quickly (fat can hold strong odors).
  • Freeze the meat for a few weeks before cooking — this may help reduce parasite risk and mellow flavor.
  • Use strong marinades (citrus, vinegar, garlic, etc.).
  • Slow cook in stews, pressure cookers, or crockpots — this breaks down tough fibers.
  • Avoid rare or medium — go well done for safety.

Great recipes with can you eat coyote meat include:

  • Coyote tacos (slow-braised and shredded)
  • Spicy chili
  • BBQ pulled coyote with lots of seasoning