The bobcat is North America’s most common wildcat. Its range extends from southern Canada to central Mexico. Named for its short, stubby tail, it can be found in a wide variety of habitats, from forests to semi-deserts. About twice the size of a house cat, bobcats typically weigh between 15 and 30 pounds. Their most distinguishing feature is the black tuft on top of each ear. Their beautiful coat ranges from tan to grey and is largely spotted. Finding bobcats in the wild is very difficult due to their incredible camouflage and shy nature.
Though the bobcat population has proven resilient over time, it is thought to be declining in some areas. Bobcats are heavily hunted, and many states have no bag limits on how many can be taken. Their pelts are valuable and used in the luxury coat market; many groups are working on laws to better protect them. California recently passed a law banning the trapping of bobcats.
Bobcats’ diet varies greatly based on habitat and the availability of prey. Rabbits, hares and rodents make up a large portion of their diet, but they also hunt small birds and ducks. A bobcat can take down a full-grown deer on its own. Stealth is its main method of hunting; after locating prey, the bobcat will sink low and crawl within striking distance. At the right moment, it bursts from its crouched position and ambushes the prey.
I was fortunate to witness an amazing hunt one evening in Point Reyes. I was scanning my surroundings with binoculars when I noticed a bobcat hunting an open hillside. After some time, it disappeared over the top of the hill. I decided to hike up the hill, and as I crested it, my heart jumped. The bobcat had only walked about 20 feet down the other side. It had its back to me and its face was inches above a gopher hole. I stood watching for 10 minutes as it focused all its energy on the potential meal. In a split second, the bobcat pounced. It dragged a gopher from its hole in the ground with a blazing swipe of its paw, then quickly disappeared behind a bush, where it consumed its meal.