Bobcats are among the most elusive and misunderstood wild animals in North America. As development continues to encroach on natural habitats, human encounters with bobcats are becoming more frequent. Understanding their behavior is crucial for peaceful coexistence and for professionals in wildlife management and removal. Here’s what you need to know about the behavior and habits of these stealthy predators.
What Is a Bobcat?
Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are medium-sized wildcats native to North America. They’re named for their “bobbed” tails, which are short and appear cut off. Adult bobcats typically weigh between 15–35 pounds and are about twice the size of a house cat. Their coats are tawny or grayish-brown, with black spots and streaks, providing excellent camouflage in forested and scrub environments.
Habitat and Range
Bobcats are highly adaptable and can live in a range of environments including forests, deserts, swamps, and even suburban areas. While they prefer dense vegetation and rocky outcrops for shelter and hunting, their ability to adapt means they’re often found near human dwellings, especially if food sources like small mammals, birds, or even unattended pet food are available.
Nocturnal and Solitary
One of the key characteristics of bobcats is their solitary and nocturnal nature. They are most active at dusk and dawn (crepuscular), and they typically avoid human activity. During the day, bobcats rest in dens made in hollow logs, rock crevices, or thick brush.
Unless it's mating season or a mother is caring for her young, bobcats live and hunt alone. They maintain large territories that they mark with scent markings and scrapes in the ground, a behavior that helps reduce encounters with other bobcats.
Hunting and Diet
Bobcats are stealthy hunters, relying on excellent vision and hearing to stalk their prey. Their diet consists mainly of rabbits, squirrels, mice, birds, and other small animals. Occasionally, they may take down larger prey such as deer fawns, especially if smaller food sources are scarce.
Contrary to popular fear, bobcats rarely pose a threat to humans or pets, though small pets left outside at night may be vulnerable. If food is scarce, bobcats may scavenge garbage or approach backyards with bird feeders or chicken coops—this is often when Wildlife X Team gets a call.
Signs of Bobcat Activity
If you suspect a bobcat is nearby, watch for signs like:
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Tracks: Bobcat tracks resemble house cat prints, but larger—typically 2 inches across with no claw marks (as their claws are retractable).
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Scat: Their droppings often contain fur or bones and are found along trails or at the base of trees.
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Scrapes: Shallow paw scrapes on the ground, often with a small pile of debris, mark territory.
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Sounds: Bobcats are generally quiet, but during mating season (winter), they may make yowling or screaming calls.
Coexisting with Bobcats
Bobcats play a vital role in controlling rodent and small mammal populations. In most cases, they prefer to avoid humans. If you see a bobcat, give it space and do not approach. To discourage bobcats from visiting your property:
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Secure garbage and compost bins.
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Keep pet food indoors.
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Install fencing around small livestock or chickens.
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Remove brush piles or rock piles that could serve as denning sites.
If a bobcat becomes too comfortable around your home or appears aggressive, it’s time to contact a professional.
When to Call Wildlife X Team
While bobcats rarely cause harm, a sick, injured, or unusually bold animal can become a serious issue. At Wildlife X Team, we specialize in humane and effective wildlife removal, ensuring the safety of both people and animals. Contact us today if you’re dealing with a bobcat or any other wildlife concern. Our experts are here to help!