Overview:
Coyotes, native to Earth, were introduced to Amargosa after the Liberation as part of an experimental effort to control the wild lycanth population. Following the occupation, aggressive wild lycanths posed a serious threat to both humans and Gelt settlers trying to rebuild the farms and settlements.
Unlike the sapient lycanths—who had allied with human resistance movements—the wild lycanths remained territorial and dangerous. The United Nations Defense Force (UNDF) deployed a specially bred strain of genetically modified coyotes to the surface as a biological control measure.
Characteristics:
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These coyotes are smaller, faster, and more obedient than wild lycanths, with DNA modifications enhancing their ability to accept training and human direction.
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They retain the cunning and adaptability of terrestrial coyotes but have been programmed via implanted chips to patrol assigned areas and avoid wandering into human settlements.
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Despite their domestication, the coyotes are still aggressive hunters and are trained to harass and chase off wild lycanths without directly engaging them in prolonged combat.
Role in the Story:
In “The Interlopers,” Eric Yuwono encounters UNDF soldiers—nicknamed “Blue Helmets”—who deploy four coyotes to the Parker farm (now co-owned by JT Austin and Colonel Quan). The animals are introduced to help patrol the reconstructed farm’s perimeter, sniffing out dangers and keeping wild lycanths at bay.
The coyotes are notably hostile toward sapient lycanths like Spikey, growling at him despite his cooperation with humans. Spikey, in turn, mocks the coyotes and finds their presence amusing and irritating.
Eric, skeptical of the coyotes’ effectiveness, refers to them as “the rats of the canine world,” echoing JT Austin’s disdain for their use over other potential solutions. Nonetheless, the coyotes’ presence marks a serious attempt by Compact and UNDF authorities to stabilize rural Amargosa post-occupation.
Cultural Note:
Coyotes are less favored than other domesticated Earth canines like dogs or wolves because of their reputation for stubbornness, solitary behavior, and general unwillingness to fully domesticate. Even genetically modified, they are seen as a stopgap rather than a long-term solution to Amargosa’s wildlife management problems.
Appearances: “The Interlopers“