Bobcat (Felis rufus) Looks like a tabby cat with a broad cheek ruff, but large 25-30", adult males may be larger. Tawny coloring with black spots. Short stubby tail with black marking on top and tip and light colored below. Short ear tufts. Similar to a lynx, but the lynx has a black tail all around, longer ear tufts and lives much further north than the bobcat. The bobcat is the most common wildcat in North America. It hides during the day and preys on rabbits, mice and squirrels.

Though they look like big tabby cats, these are wild cats. If you should happen to find one that is injured or find a kitten, do not attempt to make it a pet or to handle it. It may cause you serious injury. Call the wildlife center.

This young male bobcat was found with its leg caught in a fence probably after being chased by dogs. Photo taken 03/17/01.

His leg healed and he was released near the area where he was found. At first he did not want to leave the security of the carrier, but when he did, he took 3 jumps and disappeared into a bush 50 feet away before any other photos could be taken!