Bobcat: here’s the scoop
threats
While it is legal to trade in bobcat pelts, the bigger threat to bobcats is thought to be habitat loss, vehicle collisions, and exposure to rodenticides.
Committed to Conservation
The Buttonwood Park Zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Bobcats. Instead of focusing on breeding and genetic diversity, the Bobcat SSP manages the placement of rescued and rehabilitated bobcats that cannot return to the wild.
Species
Bobcat
Scientific name
Lynx rufus
Habitat
In the United States, the bobcat ranges through a wide variety of habitats, including boreal coniferous and mixed forests in the north, bottomland hardwood forest and coastal swamp in the southeast, and desert and scrubland in the southwest. Only large, intensively cultivated areas appear to be unsuitable habitat.
Diet
Carnivorous. Feeding primarily on rabbits and rodents, but they also hunt small deer, birds, snakes and lizards.
life expectancy
15 – 25 years
Did you know?
The Zoo is home to two 5 year old bobcats (Max and Mayzie) who were rescued at a young age after being found orphaned in southern California.
Range
Southern Canada and throughout the United States and Mexico
Conservation status
Least Concern
Widespread and abundant
