The bobcat, Lynx rufus, is a common native species found across Texas. This wild feline is highly adaptable and occupies a diverse range of environments throughout the state. Understanding the bobcat’s presence, appearance, and habits is helpful for residents seeking to coexist with this predator. The bobcat plays an important role in controlling populations of smaller animals within Texas ecosystems.
Statewide Presence and Habitat Range
Bobcats are distributed throughout nearly every region and county within Texas, making them the most widespread native wildcat in the state. They demonstrate adaptability, thriving in environments that range from dense forests to arid brushlands. Their presence extends from the humid Piney Woods of East Texas to the rocky canyons of the Trans-Pecos region in the west.
These felines are also found in the rolling terrain of the Hill Country and the dense brush of the South Texas Plains. They favor areas that provide dense cover, such as thickets, brush piles, and rocky outcrops for den sites. They have successfully adapted to suburban and urban edges, often living unnoticed while utilizing greenbelts and creek beds for travel and hunting.
Identifying Physical Characteristics
The Texas bobcat is a medium-sized feline, noticeably larger than a domestic cat but smaller than a mountain lion. Adults typically weigh between 9 and 33 pounds, with males generally being about a third larger than females. Their coat color is highly variable, ranging from a reddish-brown to grayish-buff, and often features distinct or faint dark spots and streaks across the body.
A defining feature is the short, “bobbed” tail, which measures only about four to seven inches long. This tail is black-tipped on the upper side and white underneath. Further distinguishing features include prominent tufts of hair on their ears and an obvious ruff of longer fur extending along the sides of their head, resembling sideburns.
Safety and Coexisting with Bobcats
Bobcats are generally shy and reclusive, primarily hunting at night or during the crepuscular hours of dawn and dusk. Attacks on humans are rare, and they pose virtually no threat to people. The most common concern is for small pets or livestock, which is why maintaining a bobcat’s natural fear of humans is important for safe coexistence.
Residents can take several preventative steps to discourage bobcats from lingering near homes. Securing small pets, especially dogs and cats, indoors at night or supervising them closely while outside is a primary measure. Bobcats primarily prey on small animals like rabbits, mice, and rodents, but they may opportunistically target unsecured pets.
Removing food attractants is another strategy to avoid drawing bobcats to a property. This includes feeding pets indoors, securing garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, and picking up fallen fruit and birdseed that attracts their prey. If a bobcat is sighted nearby, using hazing techniques can reinforce their natural wariness of people. Making loud noises, clapping, or spraying them with a garden hose encourages the animal to move away.