Coyote & Predator | October 12, 2026
Night hunting for coyotes is a game of patience and precision. Understanding how coyotes respond to sound after dark gives you a huge advantage, and a thermal scope lets you see their reaction before they even break cover. Start by scouting the area during daylight so you know where travel corridors and den sites are likely to be.
A reliable call sequence mimics a realistic social interaction. Begin with a low, mournful howl to attract attention, follow with a series of short barks to suggest a rival, and finish with a high-pitched yelp that can trigger a territorial response. Keep each segment short, pause for a few seconds, then repeat. Too much calling can spook the animal, so let the thermal image guide you - if you see movement, hold the call and let the coyotes investigate.
Setting up for night calls is all about stability and concealment. Use a sturdy tripod to keep your thermal scope level and reduce shake. Position yourself near natural cover, such as a brush pile or a low ridge, and wear dark, non-reflective clothing. Adjust the thermal reticle to a high-contrast setting and set the focus to the distance of the expected travel line.
When scanning, employ a slow, horizontal sweep that matches the terrain’s natural lines. Start low, near the ground where coyotes often move, then raise the scope to check higher brush and tree lines. Pause briefly at each point to let the sensor settle, then move on. A steady, methodical scan combined with timed calls will keep the coyotes curious and increase your chances of a clean shot.