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The Bobcat is approximately twice the size of most domestic cats, and
slightly smaller than the Canadian Lynx. It was originally called the Red
Lynx, because of the reddish colouring in its coat. The name Bobcat may have
originated from its short tail, the end of which is always black, tipped
with white, distinguishing it from the Canadian Lynx, whose tail is
tipped with black. Bobcats are found in most types of habitat, especially
in mountains and in desert areas where water is plentiful. In fact it ranges
through all four deserts of the American Southwest, but favours rocky,
brushy hillsides. It is a solitary hunter and can have rather large
territories of up to 170 sq km (66 sq miles). Bobcats are fierce animals
despite their domesticated appearance, and can easily kill a small deer;
however, they mostly prey on rabbits and hares,
ground squirrels, rats, mice, snakes, and ground birds.
It is similar to a housecat in its mating habits, with breeding taking
place at almost any time, although the young are usually born in April and
May. Because bobcats are solitary animals, males and females spend only a
few days of the year together; with females only normally producing just one
litter per year. |
