As individuals who are prepared for emergencies it is crucial for us to possess the skill of finding and hunting our food. While there are game animals that are commonly pursued and consumed one creature that often goes unnoticed is the coyote. So, can you eat coyote meat?
In this article we will delve into this subject extensively. Offer advice and tips to preppers who intend to include coyote meat in their diet.
There are reasons why people exercise caution when it comes to consuming coyote meat, such, as concerns regarding its hygiene due to its nature, where it consumes a wide range of food items.
If you’re curious, about whether or not one can eat coyote meat continue reading for all the information you need.
How does coyote meat taste?
When it comes to flavor and texture coyote meat is quite similar, to game meats like venison or wild boar. It has a taste and can be somewhat lean and tough if not prepared correctly.
Hunters generally agree that coyotes have a better taste during the winter months when their diet is more controlled compared to those during the hot summer.
However their diet, in summer mainly consists of carcasses and rotting meat, which can make their meat tougher and develop a flavor.
Don’t worry! There are cooking techniques that can be used to enhance the taste of coyote meat, which you’ll discover on.
How much meat do you get from a coyote?
Hunters have observed that a grown healthy coyote can provide, up to 18 pounds of meat which’s a considerable amount for campers or hunters in the wilderness.
There is a growing acceptance of the idea of consuming coyote meat not for its flavor after preparation. Also due to the widespread presence of coyotes worldwide. They present a solution to addressing the increasing food insecurity issues across the globe.
Were you aware that coyote meat is also nutritious and serves as a food source, for communities? Hunting them during the winter season proves optimal as their protein rich meat becomes crucial during times of food availability caused by snow and cold weather.
In the winter communities living near jungles and forests depend heavily on coyotes, for sustenance despite a handful of restaurants now finding it lucrative to offer this game meat alongside their menu options.
How to cook coyote meat
If you plan to include coyotes, in your diet to supplement your food reserves it’s important to know how to prepare the meat.
The cooking methods for coyote meat can vary depending on whether its summer or winter. During the summer months hunters or campers should soak the meat in brine after hunting and killing the coyote.
This step is essential for making the meat tender and enhancing its flavor before cooking. Brine, along with garlic and ginger also helps cleanse the meat of bacteria resulting in taste.
To enhance tenderness and flavor it is recommended to marinate the meat in a mixture of vinegar, oil, herbs or spices for hours before cooking. Slow cooking methods like stewing or braising can help break down the toughness of the meat and make it more tender.
Begin by cutting the coyote meat into desired pieces and consider using bacon drippings for a stew. If preferred you can also grind it into meat according to your preference.
For those who enjoy grilled meats marinating chunks of coyote meat is the step. Apple cider vinegar or oil vinegar make options, for marinades.
Make sure to let the meat chunks soak for a hours. This will not help tenderize the meat. Also infuse it with the flavor you want.
There are plenty of coyote recipes online:
Cajun Coyote Recipe — for the Grill
In truth, you could probably substitute lean beef recipes with coyote.
Coyote meat nutrition
Many people often underestimate the safety and nutritional value of game meat. Coyote meat has proven to be an exception. Consuming coyotes can provide your body with nutrients.
Coyote meat is renowned for being low, in fat and cholesterol making it a healthier choice compared to supermarket meats. It is particularly rich, in proteins and riboflavin. Additionally this game meat contains amounts of zinc and iron that can contribute to your well being.
Furthermore those who include coyote meat in their diet can reap the advantages of its high quality vitamin B12 content.
The legality surrounding coyote hunting
While it is generally allowed to hunt coyotes, for sport and game meat, in countries the specific regulations may vary from one state to another.
In regions there are state and local laws that govern coyote hunting requiring hunters to obtain a license or permit in order to engage in hunting activities.
To ensure compliance and avoid penalties or legal consequences it is crucial to conduct research and adhere to all relevant laws and regulations.
Other thoughts on harvesting Coyote
Apart, from the safety and legal aspects it is crucial to contemplate the implications of hunting and consuming coyotes.
Although coyotes are commonly viewed as nuisances and are hunted to maintain population levels it’s important to acknowledge that they are creatures who exhibit behaviors and fulfill significant ecological roles.
If feasible it might be morally justifiable to explore food sources before turning to hunting coyotes.
Are there any side effects to eating coyote meat?
Cooking all types of game meat follows a rule; exercise caution and cook for a period. Pay attention when preparing coyote meat, as handling or preparation can have negative consequences for your well being.
There are complications that may arise from mishandling and insufficient preparation of coyote meat. Some of these include the following;
It is essential to avoid consuming meat while in the wilderness whether it is from coyotes or hogs. It’s always better to prioritize safety over regret. Consuming raw meat can lead to dehydration due, to diarrhea and vomiting which can result in health issues.
Trichinosis
Trichinella is a parasite that can be commonly found in wild animals such, as coyotes, bears, raccoons and even hogs. It’s important to note that while coyotes may or may not carry these parasites properly cooking the meat will enhance its safety.
By subjecting the meat to temperatures, for cooking times the trichinella parasites are effectively eliminated, ensuring that the meat becomes safer to consume.
What is trichinosis?
People can get sick when they eat coyote meat that has trichinella parasites. This condition shows up with signs and symptoms, like feeling tired bloating, muscle aches, stomach cramps, nausea and even severe diarrhea.
To make sure you stay safe it’s crucial to cook coyote meat (or any other game meat) at temperatures of least 165°F. This helps to eliminate any contaminants or parasites.
It’s especially important to boil the parts of the meat, for safety reasons.
Conclusion
In conclusion it’s important to approach the idea of consuming coyote during emergencies or crises with caution. Coyote meat can be tough. Have a gamey flavor and if not prepared correctly there is a risk of contamination, from toxins or pathogens.
Coyotes are carriers of diseases, including rabies, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with bodily fluids.
Moreover since coyotes are often considered pests and face exposure to toxins and pollutants over time it’s crucial to consider the accumulation of these substances in their bodies.
Hunters should always adhere to laws and regulations while also contemplating the aspects associated with hunting and consuming coyote.
If you ever find yourself in a survival situation where coyote’s your available food source make sure to cook the meat thoroughly and remove any visible fat or connective tissue as precautions for your safety.
With preparation methods coyote can serve as a source of nutrition during times when resources are limited and complement your food supplies effectively.
You can check out our other survival food articles to learn about other sources of nutrition.
