Bobcat
Lynx rufus (Felis rufus)

Report by Dylan Mozingo

The Bobcat is found only in North America and is the most common wildcat here. This cat feeds mainly on rabbits and hares but it will attack many types of prey. A fearless predator, it not only attacks animals larger than itself, it also takes on skunks and porcupines. Its name comes from its "bobbed," or stubby, tail.

Look For: A short-tailed, spotted, yellowish-brown cat with a white belly. Twice the size of a house cat. Seldom seen, but tracks in snow are easily found in the right habitat.

Length: Body 24-48" long, tail 4-7"; 14-29 lb.

Habitat: Swamps, forests, farmlands, and brushy areas; rocky ledges preferred for den sites.

Range: Southern Canada and much of U.S.; scarce or absent in much of Midwest.