Bobcats are wild animals that occasionally venture into human-populated areas, leading to unexpected encounters. Knowing how to react appropriately during these sightings is important for both human safety and the well-being of the bobcat. Understanding their characteristics and behaviors helps in minimizing potential conflicts and promoting coexistence.
Identifying a Bobcat and Its Natural Habitat
Bobcats are medium-sized wild cats with distinct physical features. They have buff to brownish fur, often spotted or striped brown and black, and their undersides are lighter. Their short, “bobbed” tail, typically 3.5 to 7.9 inches long, has a black tip. They also have facial ruffs, ear tufts, and white spots on the back of their ears. They weigh 10 to 40 pounds and stand 12 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
These felines inhabit a wide range of environments across North America, from southern Canada through the contiguous United States to Mexico. Their habitats include forests, swamps, deserts, shrublands, and suburban areas, especially where dense vegetation, rocky ledges, or brush piles offer cover. Bobcats are solitary and most active around dusk and dawn, though they can be seen during the day. They establish scent-marked territories and avoid human contact.
Safe Practices During a Bobcat Sighting
If you encounter a bobcat, remaining calm is the first step. Bobcats are shy and prefer to avoid humans; an attack is unlikely unless they feel threatened or are sick. Do not approach the animal, especially if it is near young or a food source. Maintain a safe distance and slowly back away, keeping your eyes on the bobcat. Avoid turning your back or running, as this could trigger their natural chase instinct.
If the bobcat does not move away or approaches, make yourself appear larger. Raise your arms, open your jacket, or stand on a higher surface to increase your perceived size. Make loud noises, such as shouting or blowing a whistle, to scare the animal off.
You can throw small objects like rocks or sticks in its direction, but do not throw them directly at the bobcat. If with children or pets, pick them up immediately for safety. Ensure pets are leashed and close to you in areas where bobcats might be present.
Addressing Concerning Bobcat Behavior
While bobcats avoid people, certain behaviors warrant increased caution. If a bobcat appears sick, injured, or exhibits unusually bold or aggressive behavior, such as approaching humans or showing disorientation, it could indicate rabies. Rabies symptoms include foaming at the mouth, erratic movements, or lethargy. In rare instances, fight back if an attack occurs.
For unusual or concerning bobcat behavior, contact local wildlife authorities or animal control. They can assess the situation, provide guidance, and intervene. This includes reporting injured or trapped bobcats, or those posing an immediate threat to public safety. Never attempt to handle a sick or injured bobcat.
Minimizing Future Encounters
To reduce future bobcat encounters, make your property less attractive to them. Secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids to prevent scavenging, and avoid leaving pet food or water outdoors. Bobcats are attracted to areas with abundant small prey; maintaining a clean yard helps. Trim dense vegetation, clear brush piles, and remove debris that could serve as hiding or denning sites.
For properties with livestock or outdoor pets, secure enclosures are important. Pens for poultry or other small animals should be made of heavy-gauge welded wire with small openings and ideally have a roof. Burying fences at least 12 inches deep can prevent bobcats from digging underneath. Motion-activated lights and noisemakers can deter bobcats from entering your yard.