Coyotes are members of the dog family and are known for their cleverness and adaptability. Coyotes originally lived primarily in open prairies and deserts but now roam forests and mountains, and have even colonized cities and can now be found over most of North America. Their adaptability is also visible in their eating habits. They will eat almost anything from fruits to rodents, sometimes animals as large as deer, they also sometimes eat lamb, calves and other livestock. Coyotes have a very strong sense of smell and keen vision. They can also run at speeds up to 40 miles (64km) an hour. Coyotes form strong family groups, and in the winter they form packs to hunt more effectively. Females can have up to 12 pups. Both parents are protective of their young and their territory. Coyotes are sometimes called prairie wolves or brush wolves. They communicate with each other with a distinctive call that develops into a loud canine chorus at night.