Background: The bobcat is the only wild cat found in Connecticut and the most common wild cat in North America. ... Historically, bobcats were not protected in Connecticut and were viewed as a threat to agriculture and game species. The state even had a bounty on bobcats from 1935-1971.

Are bobcats common in Connecticut?

After nearly being hunted to extinction in Connecticut, bobcats are making a big comeback. Legally protected from hunting and trapping since 1972, Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection now estimates the statewide bobcat population has grown to almost 1,500 across all eight counties.

Is there any lynx in CT?

Canada Lynx

Lynxes disappeared from Connecticut for decades until a set of lynx tracks were discovered in 2011. It now seems likely that there is a small breeding population of lynxes in Connecticut. Perhaps in the future we could see more of these graceful cats in our state!

How rare is it to see a bobcat?

Bobcats are elusive and nocturnal, so they are rarely spotted by humans. Although they are seldom seen, they roam throughout much of North America and adapt well to such diverse habitats as forests, swamps, deserts, and even suburban areas.

What is the apex predator in Connecticut?

The apex predators through much of Connecticut's natural world are usually black bears.

Connecticut’s Bobcat Population Flourishing

35 related questions found

What happens if you see a bobcat in CT?

Anyone who finds a ROAD-KILLED BOBCAT is urged to call the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011 and provide location details. (Please DO NOT report sightings of live bobcats at this number -- see below on how to report sightings.)

Do mountain lions live in CT?

The official word is that mountain lions were declared extinct in Connecticut back in the late 1800s but sightings have become much more prevalent. ... According to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), there are simply no mountain lions in Connecticut but many people would disagree.

What do you do if you see a bobcat?

Lynx, Bobcats, and Cougars

When encountering a wild cat, back away slowly and deliberately from the animal. The more distance between you and the cat, the better. Do not run away as that could trigger the feline's hunting instincts. You can scare it away by spraying water or making noise.

What is the difference between a wildcat and a bobcat?

is that bobcat is a north american wild cat, lynx rufus , having tufted ears and a short tail or bobcat can be a multi-purpose construction vehicle that is a akin to a smaller version of a front-end loader or a backhoe (backhoe loader), with a one-man caged control cabin while wildcat is a species of cat, felis ...

Do bobcats come out during the day?

Because of their solitary nature and caution toward humans, bobcats are seldom seen. They may be active day or night, but often avoid daylight activity. In developed areas near humans, bobcats typically limit their activity to early dawn, dusk and night hours.

Where do bobcats live in CT?

Sighting and vehicle-kill reports indicate that bobcats now reside in all eight Connecticut counties. However, the heaviest concentrations occur in the northwestern corner of the state.

Is there wolves in CT?

“Connecticut has become home to the eastern coyote (Canis latrans var.) ... And for anyone worried about encountering a gray wolf in Connecticut, Vann said there are no wolves in our state. The closest population is in Algonquin Park, Quebec, Canada.

Can you domesticate a bobcat?

Bobcats are not legal as pets without a permit (only provided to educators, zoos, research, animal sanctuaries, etc.) in most states. Recently, many states are joining the ranks of outlawing everything feline except domesticated cats despite minimal public safety issues.

Do Bobcats eat dogs?

Bobcats kill and eat a variety of animal species, from tree squirrels to deer, but will occasionally prey on livestock, fowl and household companion animals, such as rabbits, cats and dogs. Bobcats have been known to enter chicken coops and kill all birds enclosed within, but eating only a few choice bits.

Are coyotes in CT?

Eastern coyotes were first documented in Connecticut in the 1950s. Since then, they have expanded their range and are now common throughout the state.

Can a bobcat mate with a house cat?

Domestic cat × bobcat (Lynx rufus): There are reports of bobcats breeding with domestic cats, but evidence of offspring remains circumstantial and anecdotal. Their interfertility is yet to be proven scientifically.

Where can I find a bobcat?

The best time to locate bobcat sign is after a late snowfall. Slowly drive or walk old logging roads and trails until you find tracks. Bobcats have a home range of 25-35 miles but move with stealth and an acute alertness. When you're on a track, move the same way, always keeping your eyes up and ahead.

Are bobcats aggressive?

Bobcats tend to be shy and avoid people. Rarely, a bobcat can become aggressive, and bobcats with rabies can attack humans. ... Bobcats can also attack if threatened or if cubs are nearby. The animals are fast and have sharp claws.

Where are bobcats located?

The largest Bobcats are found in Canada and the western USA, while the smallest are found in Mexico. Bobcats are found from southern Canada, down through the USA to northern Mexico. As habitat generalists, they live in a wide variety of areas, including all types of forest, coastal swamp, desert and scrubland.

What does it mean if you see a bobcat?

Bobcat symbolism and meanings include self-reliance, perception, moxie, stealth, friskiness, beauty, and affection. ... In addition, the bobcat spirit animal is a figure who appears in the spiritual belief systems of many Native American tribes.

How do you scare away Bobcats?

If you notice a coyote or bobcat in your area, never let it go by without scaring it. Yell or clap loudly to scare wildlife away; carry something with you to make noise, i.e. an air horn, or something to throw, like a rock or baseball.

What smells do Bobcats hate?

If they are around your home, farm or chicken coops; you want an effective bobcat deterrent! Bobcats know that a wolf means trouble for them - so wolf urine scent sends a clear message - a message of deadly fear that is deeply ingrained in the bobcat's genetic code.

Do Fisher Cats live in Connecticut?

Fishers found throughout eastern Connecticut are a result of natural range expansion. In 2005, Connecticut instituted its first modern day regulated trapping season for fishers. Most northern states have regulated fisher trapping seasons. Fisher fur is valuable, especially the smoother, more silky pelts of the females.

Does CT have grizzly bears?

In the wake of the brutal – and quite rare -- grizzly bear attack at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming this week, it might be reassuring to readers that there are no grizzly bears in the woods of Connecticut or New York State.

Do moose live in CT?

Connecticut does have suitable moose habitat in some portions of the state. The presence of this wilderness species in Connecticut is a testament to the health of our environment. On the other hand, moose that wander into populated areas or onto roadways may threaten public safety.