Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are a widespread native species in Alabama. Their numbers have increased over the last 40 years due to habitat improvements and stricter harvest regulations. While often elusive, their presence is a consistent part of Alabama’s wildlife.
Identifying Bobcats
Bobcats are medium-sized wildcats, significantly larger than a domestic cat but smaller than a cougar. Their fur typically ranges from reddish-brown to smoky gray, often with dark spots and streaks on their body, legs, and tail. The underside of their body is usually off-white.
A distinguishing characteristic is their short, “bobbed” tail, with a black tip and a white underside. They also possess black ear tufts and prominent facial ruffs that make their heads appear larger. Male bobcats are larger, weighing between 14 and 43 pounds, while females range from 9 to 34 pounds, with their height at the shoulder between 1 and 2 feet.
Where Bobcats Live in Alabama
Bobcats inhabit a variety of environments. They are found in heavily wooded uplands, bottomland forests, brushy areas, swamps, semi-open farmland, rocky outcroppings, and canyons. Due to expanding human settlements, bobcats can occasionally be found near agricultural fields and even in urban and suburban fringes.
These felines are territorial, marking their boundaries with claw marks, urine, and feces. While they can be active during the day, bobcats are primarily crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the early mornings and late evenings. They may travel between 2 and 7 miles daily within their home range, spanning several square miles.
Bobcat Behavior and Diet
Bobcats are solitary animals, only interacting with others during the breeding season. Breeding in Alabama typically peaks between December and February. Females give birth to one to six kittens after a gestation period of 62 days. These dens are often located in hollow logs, under tree roots, or beneath rock ledges.
As opportunistic carnivores, bobcats primarily hunt small mammals. Their preferred prey includes rabbits, but they also consume rodents, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. When food sources are scarce, they may prey on larger animals such as white-tailed deer fawns or scavenge carrion. Bobcats are ambush predators, using stalking techniques to capture prey.
Coexisting with Bobcats
Bobcats are shy and reclusive, posing little threat to humans. To minimize potential conflicts, securing outdoor pet food and trash cans, as these can attract wildlife. Keeping pets indoors or in secure enclosures can protect them, though attacks on domestic animals are rare.
If a bobcat is sighted, observe it from a distance and avoid approaching. It is normal for bobcats to be active during the day, particularly when hunting for their young. In Alabama, bobcats are classified as game animals and furbearers, and hunting is permitted year-round during daylight hours. If a bobcat is causing a nuisance, contacting the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division can provide guidance on appropriate actions.