Probably your collie has been invading the 'territory apparent' of the coyotes and they are just trying to defend that territory. The best one wins. Now the dilema is to figure out how long you let the battle go on. Tie up and protect the collie, or try to take out the coyote(s). I find coyotes are always on the move, and are hard to get a good bead on them with a rifle, or even a shotgun, for that matter. Had one stalking my turkey decoy, and had a bead on it, but didn't shoot. Too afraid I would chase away a Tom turkey while doing it. [img]/forums/images/icons/grin.gif[/img]
IMO, letting dogs run isn't a good idea, as they tend to form packs and can be more lethal to farm animals (and even children) than wild animals. And, yes, even the docile family pet can become one of the 'gang'. [img]/forums/images/icons/crazy.gif[/img] Had it happen.