Interesting Facts about the Bobcat - Research Paper Example

Bobcat is approximately double the size of an average domestic cat. The species tends to be reserved, hence, they are rarely seen by the public. The Bobcats vary in their color, a phenotype that is dependent on the animal’s geographic location. This paper will analyze the Lynx rufus, its physical characteristics, behavior, reproductive traits, predators, and some interesting fact about the animal.

The Bobcat is the smallest member of the Lynx species (Larivière et al., 1-8). They range from 47 to 126cm in length and tails are approximately 16cm long (Larivière et al., 1-8). An adult male is approximately 15kg. As mentioned above, the phenotype of the animal varies depending on the region from grayish-brown to tan. In certain surroundings, the bobcat has spots that are utilized as camouflage from predators. It has pointed black-tipped ears and a white underside. The bobcat also appears to have a wide face which is a result of extended hair below the ears. Its eyes are yellow with dark pupils and a red-pinkish nose (Larivière et al., 1-8). The animal’s eyes are physiologically adapted for nocturnal activity and other senses that are enhanced include vision, smell, and hearing (Newbury, 12-32).

Lynx rufus is crepuscular and is constantly on the move from sunset until midnight and from dawn until sunrise. Daily the animal moves approximately 10km (Fraser, 81-96). In the winter and fall seasons, the Bobcats are diurnal as they accustom themselves to the behavior of their prey. The bobcats often habit hollow trees and rocks and often may mark their territory with feces and urine. They also mark their territory with unique claw marks on trees (Fraser, 81-96). The males are responsible for patrolling the homes, which may include the female territory. However, the females and males do not interact until the breeding season. The male bobcats often attempt to avoid each other to reduce the chances of an injury occurring during a fight (Fraser, 81-96).

As mentioned above, male and female bobcats only interact during mating season (White, 30-35). Both species are not restricted to one partner and often mate with multiple partners. The female goes through a gestation period of approximately 9 weeks. A female bobcat often gives birth to a letter of approximately 3 to 6 kittens (Fraser, 81-96). This procedure takes place in an occluded and safe den. Bobcats are born blind and often gain their sight after 10 days (Larivière et al., 1-8). The main diet for the kittens is their mother’s milk which they consume until they can hunt. Births often occur early in the spring or late in the winter with the kittens remaining with their mother for approximately 8 months. At this age, they can hunt and fend for themselves (Larivière et al., 1-8). The males are not often included in raising the young.

The Bobcats are carnivores and mainly feed on hares, rabbits, lizards, birds, and mice (Riley et al., 5-13). However, depending on the diet they can hunt larger prey such as deer or eat fresh carrion (Riley et al., 5-13). Bobcats hunt in an elusive manner utilizing the element of surprise. They often sneak up on the prey at night and pounce on it with a large amount of force. They have the strength to kill animals that are much larger than them (Riley et al., 5-13).

Bobcats are often the dominant animal in their territories hence they have very few predators. Their contracts mainly include wolves and cougars. The kittens are more vulnerable and their predators include owls and coyotes. However, the biggest threat to the species is humans which hunt them for their fur. In addition, their habitants of being destroyed to create more living space.

Interesting facts about the Bobcat include its ability to pounce on an animal from over 3 m away. This skill has enabled them to kill larger prey. In certain areas, they have been mistaken for mountain lions due to their loud growls. The animals also share a striking resemblance with the Red Lynx (Larivière et al., 1-8).

In conclusion, it is safe to say the Bobcat is one of the many animals that are at risk of extinction. Their soft fur and the destruction of their habitats have caused the population to decrease. These animals are not dangerous to humans and reserves must protect their species. Read More