What About Bob? (Lynx rufus)

- Although bobcats can be found living in the wild across the state, the WNC mountains are home to some of the largest numbers, with populations on the rise.

- They make their dens in hollow trunks, brush and rock piles, and the root masses of toppled trees.

- The cats are adept hunters: they have razor-like retractable claws and long, sharp teeth, and their pupils expand in the darkness for easy nighttime missions. They favor rabbits and mice, along with birds, squirrels, opossums, deer, and snakes.

- Bobcats get their name from their short tail, which reaches an average of only five inches. An adult stands about 20 to 30 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 40 pounds.

- They’re solitary creatures, only interacting with other bobcats during the breeding season (February to March).

- Wildlife experts note that they may live close to humans and can venture into developed areas, but say that their presence in a neighborhood isn’t cause for concern. Indeed, thanks to their reclusive ways, a spotting, even in the wild, is rare.