Bobcat

Bobcats - History

One of the most easily recognized feline species; Bobcats were once abundant on vast territories. The species was found in various habitats throughout Northern America. Bobcats inhabited deserts, forests, mountains, and swamp areas. Though still present in all US states, parts of Canada and Mexico, the Bobcat's population has declined due to a number of causes.

Bobcats - Pictures

Photo courtesy of
Leningradsky Zoo

The Bobcat is the top predator. Though the juvenile do suffer from natural predators, adult Bobcats have few threats in the wild. They are good hunters and can live in a wide variety of habitats. They feed on a wide range of mammals and seem to have little to no difficulty in adapting to ever changing conditions.

Bobcats - Reasons for Population Decline

However, agriculture development and urban growth has restricted the Bobcat to a small fraction of its original range. This beautiful fur-bearer has extensively been hunted for thick fur. As the demand of fur industry grew, the population of the species declined. Moreover, the Bobcat is known to hunt livestock, which brings considerable damage to farmers. Persecuted as a cruel predator, the Bobcat has experienced decline in numbers.

Bobcats - Current Status

Meanwhile, the Bobcat is an important species for the ecosystem. Since it feeds on mice and other small rodents, the Bobcat helps farmers get rid of pests. Nowadays, the Bobcat population appears to be well established in some areas due to favorable conditions and hunting restrictions. Moreover, to lessen Bobcat predation, local governments develop management programs.

In ten US states, however, the Bobcat is protected, while Canadian officials recognize the need for hunting and fur trade restriction. It is believed that the preservation of the Bobcat is essential for the ecosystem to survive. Keeping in mind the economic importance of the species, there should be special steps taken to retain the habitat of this wild feline. It should also be taken into consideration that Bobcats do not breed well in captivity and their future is going to be safe on the condition their original habitats are preserved.

Bobcats - Conservation and Management Links

A Tale of Two Bobcats - Facts on rescuing two Bobcats.

Bobcats - Pictures

Photo courtesy of
Webshots com

Bobcat - E. Dale Joyner Nature Preserve - Bobcat facts, including history, description, habitat, diet, and reproduction. Check out audio of a Bobcat, photos and references.

Bobcat Biology/Conservation Education - Basic information on the Bobcat.

Bobcat Conservation - A collection of links to Bobcat conservation sites.

Bobcat Profile - Size and appearance, distribution, reproduction and offspring, social system and communication, hunting and diet, principal threats, and status of the Bobcat.

Bobcat Research - Population genetics can provide important information on population structure and dispersal of Bobcats. Learn more about the project.

Bobcats - IUCN - Describes the Bobcat's characteristics, behavior, habitat and distribution. Check out their population and protection status.

Coryi Foundation - Bobcats - Details the ecology of Bobcats found in Florida. Read about their social structure and home ranges, breeding, habitats and mortality.

Division of Fish and Wildlife: Bobcats - General description, diet, habitat, family life, status and distribution, and other facts about the Bobcat.

Feline Conservation Center - Learn about the zoo's Bobcats and find photos and sounds of the newborn cats.

ISEC: Bobcats - Bobcats at one time inhabited almost every conceivable type of terrain throughout North America. Today their range is much reduced. Get the facts from the International Society for Endangered Cats Canada.

Lynx Rufus - FEIS - Contains facts about Bobcats, including biology, habitat requirements, distribution, references, and an article on how wildfires effect Bobcats.

Project Wildlife - Living with Bobcats - Presents this feline's characteristics and habits. View practical tips about how to get along with this mammal.

Wild About Cats: Billy-Bob - Based in Auburn, California, this organization takes in captive-bred exotic cats that need new homes. Read stories about rescued cats.

Wildlife Protection Network - All About Bobcats! - Conservation efforts and information on the species.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: Bobcats - General information on the Bobcat and its life in San Diego County.

Bobcats - Species Facts

1Up Info - Wildlife & Animals: Bobcat (Bay Lynx) - Scan details on taxonomy, food habits, wildlife distribution, ecosystems, fire effects, common names, wildlife occurrence, fire use, and habitat of Bobcats.

Animal Facts: Bobcats - Contains habitat and habits of this feline, and the history of the species in the United States.

Bobcats - Pictures

Photo courtesy of
Big Cat Rescue

Bobcat (Felis rufus or Lynx rufus) - Appearance, hunting habits, and other information.

Bobcat (Lynx rufus) - Details about the Bobcat and links.

Bobcat (Lynx rufus) Facts and Pictures - Range and habitat, physical characteristics, diet, reproduction and social behavior, and pictures.

Bobcat Factsheet - Learn facts about the Bobcat.

Bobcat Notes - Brief notes on the species.

Bobcat Outline - This page offers information on the Bobcat including physical characteristics, range, and breeding behavior.

Discover Bobcats (Teens/Mature Teens) - Description of Bobcats, distribution, and biological facts.

Wildfacts: Bobcat (Teens/Mature Teens) - Listen to noises made by Bobcats along with brief paragraphs on their diet, habitat, and reproduction.