Coyote killing contests sound like something out of the Wild West, but they’re still happening today. These events offer cash prizes, trophies, and even rifles to the hunters who can kill the most, the biggest, or even the smallest coyotes. Despite public outcry and growing bans, these competitions continue—so why are they still a thing? Well, there’s two sides to this story, so let’s get into it.
What Exactly Are Coyote Killing Contests?
Think of a hunting tournament, but way bloodier. In these contests, hunters compete to kill as many coyotes as possible within a set time. Some target “biggest kill,” others have prizes for smallest or mangiest coyote, and some events even have special awards for kids. If that sounds disturbing, well, that’s because it.
The Justification – “Population Control”
Supporters argue these contests help control coyote populations and protect livestock. The problem? Science says otherwise. Studies show that when coyotes are heavily hunted, their populations actually rebound stronger—females have larger litters, and younger coyotes breed earlier. So instead of reducing their numbers, contests may actually make the problem worse.
The Money Behind the Bloodsport
These contests aren’t just about hunting for sport—they’re big business. Sponsors include firearms manufacturers, hunting outfitters, and outdoor gear companies. Some events even rake in thousands of dollars in entry fees, making them profitable ventures. So, is this more about conservation or who can profit off the bloodshed? You be the judge.
The Ethics Debate – Is This Hunting or Just Killing?
Even among hunters, coyote killing contests are controversial. Ethical hunters believe in fair chase hunting, which involves skill, respect, and conservation. But in these contests, coyotes are baited, lured with distress calls, and slaughtered in high numbers—sometimes without even being used for fur or meat.
The Psychological Toll on Wildlife and Humans
Experts warn that indiscriminate killing of predators disrupts ecosystems. Coyotes play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecological balance. Beyond that, some studies suggest that excessive exposure to killing contests can desensitize people, especially children, to violence.
Do These Contests Even Work?
Short answer: Not really. Studies show that killing contests don’t permanently lower coyote populations or reduce livestock losses. In fact, they can cause more problems—when dominant coyotes are killed, younger, less experienced ones take over, leading to more attacks on livestock as they struggle to hunt effectively.
The States That Have Banned Coyote Killing Contests
It’s not all bad news, because some states are finally outlawing these events. So far, coyote killing contests are banned in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Washington, Maryland, and Vermont. But in most of the U.S., they’re still perfectly legal. And in some places, they’re even celebrated.
The Loopholes Keeping Contests Alive
Even where bans exist, organizers find ways to keep these contests going. Some rebrand them as “predator control tournaments” to avoid legal trouble. Others move events to states where they’re still allowed. It’s a game of legal cat-and-mouse, and so far, the contest organizers are winning.
Public Outrage and the Push for Change
Animal rights groups, wildlife biologists, and even some hunters are calling for a nationwide ban. Graphic footage from these contests has sparked public outrage, with petitions gathering hundreds of thousands of signatures. But without stricter laws, these contests aren’t going away anytime soon.
The Role of Social Media in Glorifying the Kill
Instagram and YouTube are filled with videos of hunters posing with piles of dead coyotes from these contests. Some see it as bragging rights, while others call it senseless slaughter. Social media has helped expose these events but also amplifies the culture of killing.
What Needs to Happen Next?
Wildlife experts argue that real solutions lie in non-lethal predator management—things like better livestock protection, guard dogs, and deterrents. Until more states take action, though, the fight against coyote killing contests remains an uphill battle.
The Future of Coyote Killing Contests
Coyote killing contests are facing increasing scrutiny, but without federal action, they won’t disappear overnight. More bans are likely in the coming years, but as long as money, tradition, and loopholes exist, so will the killing. The real question is: can we legitimately call this a conservation “sport”?
