Bobcat Lynx rufus

Identification
This medium sized cat has a short tail with a black tip and tufted ears. Its coat is spotted and reddish brown.

Location
Uncommon but increasing

Size
15 to 35 pounds

Diet
It feeds on rabbits rodents and birds.

Habitat
It occurs in forests and brushy areas in southern and eastern Ohio.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is solitary and territorial and hunts mainly at dawn and dusk. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in late winter and kittens are born in spring.

Population
The population is increasing statewide.

History
It was once extirpated but has naturally recolonized.

Human Interactions
It avoids humans and is rarely seen.

Facts
It is the only wild cat species currently breeding in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Rabbits rodents birds | Forests brushlands rocky areas | Southern and eastern Ohio