Water head
 

I have seen reference to this a few times. What is it exactly?

it happens when fluid collects in the head and face and creates noticible swelling. Most snaremen i have talked to say this is a result of a "poor" catch (low neck or inadequate snare pressure on arteries). Very few coyotoes caught high on the neck exhibit signs of fluid accumulation.

Does it ruin the pelt or is just an indication that the coyote took longer to die

i have not seen any pelt damage as a result of water head.

Caveat: I have only snared 40 coyotes in my entire life.

Thanks B. Now I get why they are nasty to skin. And you have now snared 40 more than I have. I want to try and get geared up for next year. The wife has issues with trapping/snaring. We'll see how this goes.