Bobcats are beautiful, intelligent, and cunning predators that live in the United States. These wild cats are known to live in rural areas, suburbs and even cities. If you have pets or small children, you may be wondering about how to keep a bobcat off your property.
In order to keep bobcats at bay, it’s important to know a bit about them. This includes understanding what does bobcat look like, what does a bobcat eat, and what kinds of habits do bobcats have.
If you have found yourself asking these questions, you’re in luck. Today’s article is dedicated not only to what does a bobcat look like, but many other topics to help you appreciate these unique animals from a safe distance.
Contents
What Is A Bobcat?
Bobcats are small wild cats that are common throughout North America.
A bobcat is a medium-sized wild cat native to North America. The bobcat’s habitat ranges from swamps to forests, but it prefers grasslands and coniferous forests. These solitary creatures are most active at night and dusk when they hunt for food.
The bobcat’s coat is short and dense with a spotted pattern of browns, tans, grays, and blacks. Its tail has black rings that look like a raccoon’s tail, although the tail is quite short. The bobcats’ eyes are yellowish green in color and their ears are large and rounded at the tips.
These wild cats can grow up to three feet long from nose to tip of the tail. Bobcats are about twice the size of a domestic cat, weighing between 15 and 30 pounds with males being slightly larger than females.
Bobcats have broad paws that help them walk on snow and ice without sinking too far into it. Their claws are also designed to help them climb trees easily as well as dig small burrows in the ground where they like to sleep during cold weather months or when there is heavy rain or snowfall outside their den sites.
Bobcats are solitary animals so they don’t live in groups like wolves do or even like other cats the way lions do. Bobcats tend to stay away from humans as well, unless they are protecting their young offspring or if they are seeking food from people who may have stored it or left it out accidentally.
They are often found in wooded areas near water sources like rivers, streams, or ponds. They also prefer open spaces where they can prey on smaller mammals like mice, voles, and rabbits.
Bobcats are protected animals and beneficial predators. They feed on prey like rabbits, mice, squirrels, skunks, and birds. They also eat insects such as crickets and grasshoppers when there isn’t much else available for them to eat.
What Attracts Bobcats To Certain Properties?
Bobcats are elusive, but they’re not as rare as you might think.
Are you wondering what does a bobcat look like? You’re not alone! Bobcats are a common and welcome sight in many parts of the country, especially because are not often seen by many people.
They tend to be shy and elusive, but they aren’t as rare as you might think. Bobcats live in every state except Hawaii and Alaska, and they thrive in all sorts of habitats including forests, mountains, deserts, and even near cities.
While many people are excited when they do get to see what does a bobcat look like for themselves, the truth is that bobcats are wild animals and they can be dangerous if you’re not careful.
It’s very important to have a healthy respect for bobcats, even as you go about answering the question of what does a bobcat look like.
Remember, bobcats are predatory animals that feed on a wide variety of foods, including small prey like rabbits and squirrels. In rare cases, bobcats may even become a danger to you or your family members, including small children and pets.
For this reason, it’s important to not only know the answer to what does a bobcat look like, but also certain aspects of a bobcat’s temperament, lifestyle, and habitat.
What Attracts Bobcats To Certain Properties?
Bobcats are curious animals that like to explore new territories. So if you have a property with brushy shrubs, tall grasses, or lots of open space in front or behind your home, you may have a perfect place for bobcats to live. If there is no food sources available nearby, however, your property is less likely to attract bobcats
What Are The Bobcat’s Habits And Habitats?
Bobcats live in open woodlands and brushy areas near water sources. They eat rabbits, mice, rats, squirrels, birds, and other small mammals. They are active both day and night and mate between January and March.
After a gestation period of two months, one to six kittens are born blind and helpless in a den that may be located underground or in a tree hollow. The kittens begin eating solid food at three weeks old, emerge from the den five weeks later, and leave their mother when they are around seven months old.
Do Bobcats Have Any Predators?
While bobcats are capable predators, they also have predators themselves! Some of the animals that prey on wild cats include wolves, foxes, and mountain lions (also known as cougars). However, these predators tend to avoid hunting in urban areas because there’s too much risk involved.
Top Signs A Bobcat Lives Nearby
Common signs of bobcats living nearby could be signs of scat or small dead animals.
Bobcats are elusive animals, so it can be difficult to know if you have one on your property.
With that said, there has been an increase in sightings of bobcats in suburban areas over the last few years, but these sightings may not be accurate. Bobcats are secretive and usually avoid humans, but they have been known to take up residence in backyards and even under homes.
The most common food sources for bobcats include rabbits, mice, voles, and birds. Although they will eat a wide variety of foods, they do prefer meat over fruits or other plant matter.
Bobcats are territorial animals that mark their territory with urine and feces as well as claw marks on trees and signs of digging on the ground where they bury their prey. When possible, they like to live near water sources such as ponds or rivers because this makes it easier for them to catch fish or amphibians that live there.
Bobcats usually mate during January and February after which the female will give birth to two kittens between March and April. She will nurse them until they become independent around six months old at which point they will leave their mother’s home range.
If you live in an area where bobcats live, there are ways to tell if one has visited your property recently. Check for signs such as:
Bobcat scat
Bobcats leave scat wherever they go. Many experts report that bobcat scat can easily be confused for canine waste, though there may be fur or bones in their scat from previous meals.
Bobcat dens
Bobcats have several dens in their territory where they live and sleep. These dens are located in rocky crevices, caves, hollow logs, or dense underbrush. Look for fresh tracks near potential den sites to find out if there is a bobcat nearby.
Signs of dead animals that bobcats prey on
As we mentioned above, bobcats prey on small rodents, rabbits, squirrels, and birds. Look for signs of these animals being killed by bobcats such as blood or fur on branches or in your yard.
Other signs of bobcat activity include:
- Bobcat scent markings
- Bobcat sounds and noises
- Actual sightings of bobcats
The Dangers Of Bobcats To People And Pets
Though bobcats are not usually dangerous to people, they can be dangerous to small pets and other domesticated animals.
When asking yourself what does a bobcat look like, you might also want to ask yourself if bobcats are dangerous.
Bobcats are not considered dangerous to humans, but they can be aggressive if cornered or trapped. They will defend themselves with their claws and teeth if provoked, but many encounters with humans are simply a case of mistaken identity.
The best way to avoid conflict with bobcats is to make sure that your property is secure against these animals. Remove brush piles or other debris where a bobcat might feel safe hiding out. Keep trash cans tightly closed and don’t allow pets outside after dark (especially small dogs or cats).
Bobcats can also be dangerous to other domesticated animals like chickens, pet rabbits, coy fish, and more.
We know the answer to what does a bobcat look like, and the answer is that bobcats are beautiful animals. However, while bobcats are interesting, it’s important to never approach one or try to touch or pet one if you see it.
Best Methods For Repelling Bobcats And Other Predators
One of the best ways to keep bobcats at bay is to make sure your property is not hospitable to them.
If you’re here asking what does a bobcat look like because you are intrigued by the animals, then chances are you won’t be looking for means of repellent. However, if you have small pets and even small children on your property, you could be looking for ways to safely keep bobcats at bay.
Before we dive more deeply into what does a bobcat look like and how to keep a bobcat at bay, we should first note here that bobcats are protected in most regions throughout the United States.
This means that killing bobcats is illegal in most states. So is trapping, hunting, or relocating a bobcat. For this reason, you will need to be selective in your methods for bobcat removal.
The best methods to use for getting rid of a bobcat on your property include the use of repellents. Some of the best repellents for a bobcat, now that you know the answer to what does a bobcat look like, include repellents like scent repellents, motion-activated repellents, sound repellents, sprinkler repellents, predator decoys, and more.
If you’re not sure which types of repellents would work best for your home or yard, we have a few you might consider below.
Natural Armor Animal Repellent
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Once you know what does a bobcat look like, it’s time to know how to protect your property from one. Natural Armor Animal Repellent is a highly effective, humane, and environmentally safe way to get rid of bobcats. This product includes a special blend of essential oils formulated to repel all kinds of unwanted wildlife, including bobcats.
The spray comes in an easy-to-use bottle with a long-distance nozzle so you can cover your property easily. You don’t need to worry about the scent being too strong for humans because it contains only natural ingredients. The active ingredient is lemon eucalyptus oil (which is also a natural insect repellent).
By using this product you’ll be helping to keep the environment safe while protecting your livestock, pets, and crops from predators like bobcats.
Redeo Solar Nocturnal Animal Repeller and Predator Control
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The Redeo Solar Nocturnal Animal Repeller and Predator Control is a great solution for anyone looking to keep bobcats away from their home. This product uses light and sound to keep animals away from an area. The light is invisible to humans, but can be seen by animals at night when it’s dark outside. The sound is also inaudible to most humans but can be heard by many types of animals as well.
This device works by emitting a beam of light that shines on any area you want to keep protected from nocturnal predators like bobcats, especially now that you know what does a bobcat look like.
This device also emits a high-pitched frequency that can only be heard by certain types of animals like bobcats and other predatory animals. This frequency keeps nocturnal predators away from your home so they don’t feel comfortable coming around during the night hours when they might think people are sleeping or not paying attention as closely as they would during the day hours.
Abilly Solar Ultrasonic Animal Repellent
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When wondering what does a bobcat look like, it’s also important to consider humane methods of removal.
The Abilly Solar Ultrasonic Animal Repellent is another such method that again works by emitting a sound that only animals can hear. It sends out a signal that will make any animal that hears it want to turn away from your home or garden area. Animals will keep their distance from your property and not come back because they don’t like the sound they hear when they’re near your property.
This device works by emitting ultrasonic frequencies that are inaudible to humans but can be heard by animals such as bobcats, raccoons, possums, foxes, and coyotes. They react to these noises by seeking shelter or fleeing the area altogether.
We like that the Abilly Solar Ultrasonic Animal Repeller is an effective way to keep bobcats away from your property without the use of harmful chemicals or traps.
Bonide Repels-All Animal Repellent Granules
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Bonide Repels-All Animal Repellent Granules offers another safe, effective way to keep bobcats away from your garden and yard. Once you know what does a bobcat look like, you can use this granular repellent to deter them. The product contains dried blood and garlic, which will repel animals like bobcats.
The repellent works by using a combination of olfactory and taste senses. Bobcats have an excellent sense of smell, so they’ll be able to sense the repellent before they even get close enough to touch it. The taste of garlic will also deter them because they don’t like the taste of it (or anything else that smells like it).
The best thing about this product is that it’s safe for humans and pets. It is made from natural ingredients that won’t harm you or your family if anyone accidentally comes in contact with it.
LPSSX Ultrasonic Animal Repeller With A Motion Sensor
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If you are looking to repel bobcats now that you know the answer to what does a bobcat look like, you might consider using LPSSX Ultrasonic Animal Repeller With A Motion Sensor.
This is an effective and humane way to repel unwanted animals from your property. The device uses a combination of ultrasonic and audible sound waves that are inaudible to humans but very irritating to animals, causing them to flee the area.
The device works day and night by emitting an intense sound that annoys and deters wildlife from entering your yard, garden, or house. It is suitable for use as a pest repellent against cats, dogs, deer, and other unwanted pests.
We like that there are no chemical repellents or pesticides in this product but that it will still effectively keep bobcats and other unwanted pests away from your home.
PredatorPee Original Coyote Urine Spray
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As we’ve discussed, bobcats are fierce predators that can be difficult to get rid of. They’re territorial and will fight for their territory. They’re also known for their ability to jump high in the air, pounce on prey, and climb trees.
To get rid of bobcats, one of the most effective methods is to use another predator’s scent. We recommend using PredatorPee Original Coyote Urine Spray. This is an environmentally friendly way to keep bobcats away from your property.
Coyote urine is a powerful repellent that can help you keep these cats away from your home and yard. Predators like bobcats rely on their sense of smell to find prey, so spraying predator pee around your home and yard can deter bobcats from coming near. Coyote urine can also be used successfully by farmers or homesteaders who want to keep bobcats away from their livestock.
Shoreline Marine Eco Air Horn
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One of the final methods you can use now that you know what does a bobcat look like is an air horn. There are many types of air horns available, but we like the Shoreline Marine Eco Air Horn for how to keep bobcats at bay. This horn is quality made and the loud noise it emits will scare bobcats and other predators away so they won’t come back.
The horn is made from plastic and runs on batteries, so it is very easy to use and portable. You can take it with you on hikes or camping trips and use it in case you come across any wild animals that might be dangerous.
You can also use this product around your home if you’re having problems with wild animals like bobcats coming into your yard or garden. It’s an excellent way to keep unwanted animals away from your property without causing them any harm or having to use harsh chemicals to repel them.
Home Remedies To Repel Bobcats And Other Predators
You can use home remedies like essential oil and cayenne pepper to keep bobcats away.
Are you still wondering what does a bobcat look like? Well, we know that bobcats are small to medium-sized wild cats, but they can still be a threat to your pets and livestock. If you live in an area where bobcats are common, there are some home remedies you can use to keep them away from your home and property.
- Invest in an airhorn to repel bobcats
- Bang pots and lids together
- Play a radio when you’re outdoors (usually keep it on the talk channel so bobcats think there are humans nearby
Air Horns are one of the best ways to repel bobcats and other predators from your yard or property. The noise frightens them away and they are not likely to return if they feel your property is dangerous due to the sound. You can find air horns at any hardware store or online retail site.
Another way to repel bobcats and other predators, now that you know what does a bobcat look like, is by banging pots and pans together. This creates a loud noise that scares off most animals that come near your yard or home, not just bobcats.
If you want to use something other than purchasing an air horn or banging pots together, then consider playing a radio when you are outside on your property.
How to Make a Cayenne Pepper Bobcat Repellent Spray
You can use cayenne pepper as a safe and humane way to repel not only bobcats but many other predatory animals and even the food sources they prey on like rodents.
To Make Your Own Cayenne Pepper Bobcat Repellent Spray, You Will Need:
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 20 drops each of clove oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil
- 1 Tablespoon of Cayenne Pepper
Mix all of the ingredients together in a spray bottle and shake well before using. Spray around your property to keep bobcats away.
How To Make Your Own Essential Oil Repellent Spray For Bobcats
Bobcats are very territorial, so they will not like the smell of essential oils like peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, or citronella oil. Mix 10 to 20 drops of the oil of your choice with two cups of water and spray the mixture around your yard.
You can also mix some clove oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it around your property as well. Both mixtures will help deter bobcats from coming around.
Other Tips On Keeping Bobcats At Bay
Being proactive and knowing what does a bobcat look like can help you enjoy the animals from afar.
Keeping bobcats at bay is a matter of being proactive. If you have a bobcat problem, the first thing you should do is figure out what’s attracting them to your property.
Bobcats are solitary animals and tend to roam at night. They are not typically aggressive but will defend their territory if they feel threatened.
In addition to the tips mentioned above when discussing what does a bobcat look like, we recommend you stay on top of routine landscaping so bobcats won’t find your property appealing. Keep the grass trimmed and remove any potential dens you may come across, so long as you know they are empty or abandoned.
We also suggest you use a form of pest control year-round to keep animals bobcats could prey upon out of your yard. This will reduce the number of animals in your area in general, and therefore reduce the amount of food available for predators like bobcats.
Keep up with routine landscaping so bobcats won’t find your property appealing
Remove any potential dens you may come across
Use a form of pest control year-round to keep animals bobcats prey on out of your yard
What You Should Know About Protected Wildlife Like Bobcats
Bobcats are protected and cannot be hunted, trapped, or relocated.
Bobcats are protected species in the United States and Canada. This means that it is illegal to hunt, kill, or trap bobcats, even if they are causing problems on your property. There are many different ways to keep them away from your home, including using repellents and deterrents, as we mentioned above.
However, for many people wondering what does a bobcat look like, the sighting of one of these animals is a thrill.
If you do see a bobcat, simply leave it be and watch it from afar. They typically don’t stay long, especially once they are made aware that people are nearby.
Remember, bobcats are not allowed to be killed unless there’s an immediate threat to human safety. If you see a bobcat behaving strangely or exhibiting signs of rabies, it is best to contact your local animal control agency as quickly as possible.
If you find bobcat kittens unattended, leave them alone and contact your local resources for help. It is illegal to relocate wild bobcats or their kits and could result in jail time and fines.
If you have been attacked by a bobcat or have injured one, contact your local wildlife agency immediately so they can help assess the situation and decide how best to proceed with the removal of the animal from the area if necessary.
And there you have it – now you know the answer to what does a bobcat look like! Have you ever seen a bobcat on your property or near your home?
We would love to hear from you! Share your story with us in the comment section below!
Jack founded our blog after two decades of working in the pest control industry. His vast experience dealing with a wide array of pests allows him to diagnose issues quickly and get to the heart of pest problems quickly and effectively. He has serviced more than 2,000 homes over his career and there is hardly any pest situation that he has not seen before.