Bobcat Hunting

Guidelines for Bobcat Hunting

While pictures show adorable large cats with spotted coats, many people have a widely different view of the bobcat; hunting it for the protection of livestock and simply for the sport of it.  No matter what the reason behind the hunt, it is important to note that it is not legal in all states. 

About the cat

The bobcat is a member of the cat family.  Much larger than the common house cat, these wild cats are approximately 35 inches in length with a short tail.  Adults typically weigh in at between 20 and 30 pounds depending on the sex.  Their small size may disguise the power of these creatures, which have a large muscle mass; enabling them to take down prey that is two times their size and more.  They are carnivorous animals that hunt mainly at dawn and at dusk, stalking their prey in a variety of different environments that can range from woodlands to semi-desert.  Diets for this powerful cat may include rabbits, birds and rodents, but they have also been known to attack domesticated dogs, cats and even livestock.  Strangely, the cat itself has few predators besides humans; although coyote, mountain lions and wolves will attack bobcats. 

The hunt for bobcat

Man has hunted the wild cat for many years.   Currently, they are listed on the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) treaty, meaning that bobcat hunting is allowed as long as the animal is not under threat of extinction.  Different areas have varying populations of bobcats.  Certain states within the United States have named the bobcat as endangered, while others states, Canada and Mexico have healthy populations of the animal.  This variance in bobcat numbers requires that an individual who desires to hunt or trap the animal should check on their individual state hunting regulations to see if it is allowed and, if so, what processes might be required to obtain a permit. 

While some individuals hunt the cats with rifles, the most common method of controlling bobcat activity is by trapping.  Again, it is important to check with the Department of Natural Resources or the Wildlife and Game Commission to determine if this type of action is legal within the state in which you live. 

Shooting - Shooting bobcats will require a precise and accurate firearm.  The cats are small and lithe; they can also run very quickly.  Their spotted coats, colored in either brown or grayish hues, can enable them to seemingly disappear into the background of wooded or grassy areas.  Bobcats will attack if they feel threatened, so hunting from a distance is the safe choice.  A small caliber rifle, such as a .223, .308, .30-06 or .22-250, is a common preferred weapon although some hunters may opt for a 12 gauge shotgun.

Trapping - Trapping is likely more often used for controlling bobcat populations, especially when the protection of livestock is involved.  Some of the more commonly used types of traps are long spring traps and coil traps.  Long spring traps are of leg hold design; jaws are opened and set to close with a vicious snap when the animal steps within.  Coil traps are a more recent invention, also of leg hold design but smaller and easier to set.  Placing the traps in an area frequented by bobcats, such as pathways and trails, offers the best chance for ensnaring the cat.

Bobcat hunting is most often done to protect the livestock of farmers.  There are also a number of bobcats that are killed incidentally as individuals hunt for deer or other small game.  As noted, it is important before attempting to hunt or trap these animals to check the regulations of the state in which you live to determine the legality of such activities.