NATIONAL BOBCAT DAY

October 6th every year.

National Bobcat Day - October 6, 2026 - Trap a Bobcat this season.

Bobcats are the most common wildcat in North America, ranging from southern Canada to northern Mexico.


Bobcats are not endangered or threatened. They have been known to live over 33 years in captivity, and 12 – 13 years in the wild.


The bobcat is a yellowish- to reddish-brown cat streaked and spotted with black. It has long hind legs, a short, broad face, and a short (“bobbed”) tail. The backs of the prominent, pointed ears are black with a central light-colored spot. Ear tufts, when present, are black. Both sexes look alike. The pupils of the eyes are oval (vertically narrowed) in bright light but nearly round in dim light. Bobcats and their dens have a very strong odor.
Total length: 18–50 inches; tail length: 3–8 inches; weight: 8–49 pounds.


Bobcats are nocturnal and diurnal. There is little social interaction between individuals, which mark territories with fecal matter and urine. Within their ranges, they can travel between 3 and 7 miles nightly, inspecting many objects as they go. Mating begins in December and can extend into June, with a peak in March.
 
Litters of usually 2 or 3 kittens are born after 50 to 70 days, most in May and June. Weaning occurs after two months, and young stay with the female until fall or later.


The bobcat is currently classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Bobcat populations are stable in North America.


A recent population analysis (2011) found that Bobcat numbers have increased throughout the majority of its range since the 1990’s. Forty-eight US states, seven Canadian provinces and Mexico were surveyed, with all locations except Florida reporting increased populations. The Bobcat is found in each of the contiguous states except Delaware, until this year one seen on game camera in Delaware. Its US population was estimated to be from 2,300,000 – 3,500,000 individuals. The population in Mexico is not well known, and it appears to be very rare in some central areas.


The Bobcat is now the leading wild cat species in the skin trade, with most exports coming from the US. In 2000-2006 the average annual export of skins was 29,000, with an all-time high of 51,000 skins exported in 2006. The price of bobcat fur has decreased in recent years.


Missouri Bobcat Pelts Sold
2007/08 - 3,747
2008/09 - 3,333
2009/10 - 2,131
2010/11 - 3,888
2011/12 - 4,199
2012/13 - 5,059
2013/14 - 4,130
2014/15 - 3,223
2015/16 - 2,277
2016/17 - 2,161
2017/18 - 3,018
2018/19 - 2,317
2019/20 - 2,520
2020/21 - 2,065
2021/22 - 1,303
2022/23 -    793
2023/24 – 1,321
2025/25 - 1,655

Bobcat aged at labs by teeth vary from 1 to 12 years old in Missouri.
 
Bobcats are solitary animals, and their territory size varies depending on the availability of prey. Female bobcats typically have territories of around 6 square miles, while males' territories are about 25 square miles
Bobcats are efficient hunters and are one of the most effective wild turkey killers in North America using both teeth and claws.
 
Bobcats can jump up to 12 feet high, can leap up to 10 feet and can run up to 30 miles per hour. They are also excellent climbers, swimmers, and can scale trees


They can take down full grown deer and come in at number 3 fawn predator behind black bears and coyotes.

Rabbits are a bobcat favorite prey.
1841
The Naming of the Bobcat
The term 'bobcat' originates from the word 'bob-tailed cat.' It was first used in 1841 to describe a short-tailed wildcat found in North America. The name 'bobcat' was chosen because of the cat's distinctive short, bobbed tail, which is about 5 to 7 inches long. This small predator is known for its incredible agility and fierce hunting skills.
1871
Cultural Significance in American Folklore
The bobcat holds a significant place in American folklore and Native American mythology. It is often portrayed as a symbol of wilderness and cunning. In Native American cultures, the bobcat is associated with various tribal legends and stories, highlighting its hunting prowess and spiritual significance. Its presence in folktales, songs, and artwork continues to contribute to the cultural fabric of North America.