Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are a widely distributed wild cat species across North America. These agile predators roam diverse habitats, from Canada through the United States and into Mexico. Despite their common presence, their elusive nature and nocturnal habits often make them difficult to observe in the wild, leading many to underestimate their actual size.
Typical Weight Range
Adult bobcats exhibit a considerable weight range, with males generally weighing more than females. Male bobcats usually weigh between 14 to 40 pounds (6.4 to 18.3 kg), averaging around 21 pounds (9.6 kg). Females are smaller, ranging from 8.8 to 33.7 pounds (4 to 15.3 kg), averaging about 15 pounds (6.8 kg). The heaviest accurately measured bobcat on record weighed 49 pounds (22.2 kg), though unverified accounts suggest weights up to 60 pounds (27 kg).
Factors Influencing Weight
Several biological and environmental factors contribute to the variability in a bobcat’s weight. Age also plays a role, as younger, growing bobcats weigh less than mature adults.
Geographic location significantly influences bobcat size, with individuals in colder, northern regions tending to be larger than those found in warmer, southern climates. This variation aligns with Bergmann’s rule, an ecological principle suggesting that larger body sizes are advantageous in colder environments for heat retention. For example, bobcats in eastern Canada and northern New England are often among the largest, while those in the southern Appalachian Mountains tend to be smaller.
The availability and type of food directly impact a bobcat’s physical condition and weight. Bobcats are carnivores with a diverse diet primarily consisting of rabbits and hares, but they also hunt birds, rodents, and occasionally larger prey like deer. A consistent and abundant food supply supports healthier individuals, leading to greater body mass.
Size and Other Physical Characteristics
Beyond weight, bobcats have distinct physical characteristics. Their body length, from head to the base of their tail, ranges from 18.7 to 49.2 inches (47.5 to 125 cm), averaging about 32.6 inches (82.7 cm). Their characteristic “bobbed” tail, which gives them their name, is short, measuring 3.5 to 7.9 inches (9 to 20 cm).
Bobcats stand 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) tall at the shoulder. Their fur coloration varies, often appearing mottled with shades of brown, gray, or reddish-brown, and can include distinct or faint black spots and bars, providing effective camouflage. Other recognizable features include prominent cheek ruffs that frame their face, slightly tufted ears, and often black bars on their forelegs. These combined features contribute to their compact, muscular build and agile appearance.