In the wild, foxes and coyotes showcase a clever technique called "mousing" to secure a meal. This crafty hunting method is all about stalking and capturing small mammals, like mice and voles, with a dash of patience and a dollop of precision.
Mousing is a year-round affair, but it kicks into high gear when other prey is scarce. Foxes and coyotes slyly use their low, crouched postures to silently approach their unsuspecting prey, making the technique adaptable to various terrains, from open fields to dense woodlands.
Foxes and coyotes are predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal creatures, making mousing activities more prevalent during the dawn and dusk hours. The cover of darkness provides an added advantage, allowing these predators to capitalize on their keen senses and stealth to outsmart their prey.
Evolution has played a crucial role in refining the mousing technique. The development of keen senses, such as exceptional hearing and sharp eyesight, enables these predators to detect the faintest rustle or movement of their prey. Furthermore, their agile bodies and sharp reflexes contribute to the efficiency of their hunting endeavors.