By Lynn Bowen
Beacon Columnist

posted Dec 9, 2012 - 3:19:05pm

Coyotes can easily be mistaken for dogs at a glance. But make no mistake, they are wild animals!

Their coat varies from gray to brown and even black occasionally. Coyotes have better hearing, eyesight and intelligence than pet dogs. They weigh between 20 and 30 pounds, and have pointed ears, a narrow muzzle and a bushy tail. Males are slightly larger than females.

These mammals are usually loners, but sometimes travel in pairs. They eat almost anything — rats, mice, rabbits, snakes, frogs, lizards, small livestock, baby opossums and raccoons, fruit, insects, birds, carrion, and even small dogs and cats.

Coyotes are secretive, adaptable animals that live in all terrestrial and marsh habitats, urban and suburban areas, mangroves and even the Everglades. They live from Alaska, Canada and the U.S. all the way south to Panama.

Native Americans have used coyote folklore for many, many decades, and weave much wisdom into their quilt of love that they gladly share. Here is a paraphrase of their seven principles of distraction as told by Two Feathers, a Native American tribesman:

1. Myth: Money is powerful. Reality: Money is one of the false gods of the flesh, promotes greed, and is simply a means of exchange. It is useless for spiritual things.

2. Myth: People think having a high position gains respect for them. Reality: The power of position has no bearing on the teachings of the heart.

3. Myth: A strong body and mind are impressive. Reality: These are outward appearances and have nothing to do with the grander things of life.

4. Myth: The power of fear is great. Reality: One cannot force acceptance or understanding through fear to the spiritual mind or body.

5. Myth: The power of deception will lead to acceptance. Reality: Nothing can deceive the spiritual heart of mind as the heart will always know of the deception.

6. Myth: The power of religion can control people. Reality: Only the Creator can give true power, but it is a power for true purpose.

7. Myth: There is power in healing. Reality: There are no healers, only bridges for the spirit to heal through.

I love the wisdom found in these coyote myths and realities as told by Native Americans!

— Bowen lives in DeLand. Send email to her at lynnindeland@gmail.com.

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