What is the state mammal of South Dakota?

The state mammal of South Dakota is the coyote. Coyotes are adaptable predators found throughout South Dakota in grasslands, prairies, and woodlands. They are omnivores and have a varied diet, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, and even fruits and plants. Coyotes are known for their distinctive howling, which is a method of communication used to establish territory and coordinate hunting. They are highly intelligent and have been able to thrive in both rural and urban environments. The coyote was designated as South Dakota’s state mammal in 1949 due to its widespread presence and importance in the state’s wildlife population.