Bobcat (Lynx rufus) inhabit an incredible variety of habitats across North America, favoring rocky areas and rough terrain interspersed with dense cover. They are carnivorous, consuming a wide range of animals with primary prey being rabbits, mice and voles but also including various small mammals, birds, reptiles, and occasionally deer. About half their hunting time is spent waiting to ambush prey, especially where it is plentiful, but Bobcats also meander through their territories searching for prey. Once a rabbit or other prey item is seen the Bobcat will slowly stalk the animal, crouching and cautiously moving closer towards it. In exposed areas, Bobcats move extremely slowly when stalking prey, sometimes taking 15 minutes to move 3 feet. Once close enough, the cat can sprint forward and pounce.
Bobcat populations and breeding success are directly linked to prey availability. Breeding season generally peaks in February or March, with 2-4 kittens being born between April and June. In southern portions of its range, Bobcats aren't limited by harsh winters and may breed year-round, with researchers reporting of litters in every month. Newborn kittens are helpless and blind and will stay in the den for the first 4-6 weeks of their life. By 6 months old, kittens begin to travel alone near the den. Juvenile Bobcats typically disperse in the fall.
Bobcats face habitat destruction and are easily disturbed by human activity, sometimes restricting their activity when forced to live nearer low density or rural developments. They are completely absent from high density residential areas. Bobcats are attempting to repopulate their historic range across the eastern U.S., however another threat they face is predator hunters. High-quality Bobcat pelts can fetch $100 - $400. To put this into perspective, Beaver pelts now are worth about $8-10 a piece, Mink fetch about the same, and Muskrat pelts run about $3-4. Unfortunately, the predator hunting lobby will continue to pressure legislators for "open season" in states where Bobcats are attempting to recover.
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