A Whole Lot of Howling

[Mountainman]

I was out yesterday looking for porcupines at the ranch where I work part time. As such I was only carrying my .22. I sat down to have a bite of lunch, when a whole lot of howling started up. Let me set the scene. I am sitting about half way down on the south side of the main canal for the ranches (facing south). The ground slopes down then drops off in a small coulee and then up the other side and is flat for about two miles. The wind is coming out of the west at different speeds (from calm to knock you over if you stand up). Ok, now a coyote starts barking and howling. I mean four or five barks, howls, three or four barks, howls, and then four or five barks. I grabbed my binocs but can't find it. Another coyote answers from the creek area which is at the south end of the flat area. First coyote answers in the same pattern. From my right and behind me (from the NW), two or three more start in with the same pattern - four to five barks, howl (counted 3 different howls), more barks. First one answers, second one answers, back to the pack. I decided to join in so did a short howl. For the next hour, either myself, or one of the other coyotes were barking or howling. Even though I never saw any of the coyotes, never got a shot (yeah, right with my .22?), I think it was a great experience that everyone should have the chance to have. And it was FUN!

[bucksnbears]

sounds like you were '' speaking their language""

[Tbush]

I love when THAT happen's

[Hitman off road]

That's so damn cool.
Great chance to practice calling.

[Mountainman]

Thanks, guys. I would have liked to have seen at least one (besides myself - I see enough of me) and I should have taken the 22-250. Although under the circumstances, it wouldn't have done me much good unless I shot myself in the foot. I really wasn't after coyotes that day. But as things worked out, it really was a joy. It never fails, go after coyotes, I see porkies, and gophers. Go after deer and I see everything else but. You all know that scenario. Still a learning experience.

[Prairie Ghost]

Can't get that from a book or video!