Bobcats are wild cats native to North America, recognized for their adaptability and elusive nature. These solitary predators inhabit a diverse range of environments, from forests and swamps to deserts and suburban edges. Their ability to thrive in various landscapes contributes to their widespread presence across the continent. Observing these animals in the wild can be challenging due to their cautious behavior.
Bobcat Dimensions
Bobcats display a range of sizes, but certain averages provide a clearer picture of their typical dimensions. An adult bobcat measures between 18.7 and 49.2 inches (47.5–125 cm) in total length, including their distinctive short tail. The tail ranges from 3.5 to 7.9 inches (9 to 20 cm) long. They stand 12 to 24 inches (30–60 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Adult male bobcats weigh between 14 and 40 pounds (6.4–18.3 kg), averaging 21 pounds (9.6 kg). Females are smaller, weighing 8.8 to 33.7 pounds (4–15.3 kg), with an average of 15 pounds (6.8 kg). While these figures represent typical ranges, some individuals have been recorded up to 49 pounds (22.2 kg).
Factors Affecting Bobcat Size
Several biological and environmental elements influence a bobcat’s size. Males are generally larger and heavier than females, a common characteristic known as sexual dimorphism. This means male bobcats tend to occupy the upper end of size ranges, while females are typically at the lower end.
Geographic location also plays a role in bobcat size. Bobcats in the northern parts of their range, which extends from southern Canada to Mexico, are larger than those in southern regions. This variation can be linked to environmental factors and resource availability. Younger bobcats are smaller than adults.
Bobcat vs. Other Felines
Comparing bobcats to other felines helps contextualize their size. Bobcats are larger than domestic cats, often two to three times their size. While a domestic cat weighs 8 to 15 pounds, a bobcat weighs 15 to 40 pounds.
Bobcats are often confused with the Canadian lynx due to their similar appearance and shared genus. Bobcats are smaller than Canadian lynx, which weigh 18 to 60 pounds. Distinctions include the bobcat’s shorter ear tufts and less prominent facial ruff compared to the lynx’s longer tufts and shaggier mane. A bobcat’s tail has a black tip on the top side with a white underside, while a lynx’s tail is completely black at the tip.
Compared to larger North American wild cats like cougars (mountain lions), bobcats are smaller. Cougars weigh over 140 pounds and have very long tails.