Coyotes are opportunistic predators. Healthy adult deer have little to worry about from coyotes, even a pack of coyotes. One swift kick to the jaw or leg is fatal to the coyote, so they will look for an easier meal elsewhere. However, if the deer is young, sick, or injured, a single coyote or a pack of coyotes may decide to attack. Or they may decide to run the deer a little bit. If they run the deer and the deer still looks like it could put up a formidable defense, they will leave it be and check on it later. If the deer tires quickly, they will attack.

The large the pack, the more likely they are to attack larger and healthier prey. Single coyotes will only attack very young or very weak animals. Packs will attack animals that to us may show little to no visible signs of weakness.