, Family Cat (Felidae) Size 36"L 15"T 20lbs Breeding 2-3 young in May Food rabbits, small mammals Habitat Extremely variable -- usually wooded areas     The Bobcat is roughly twice the size of a domestic cat with a black-tipped, stubby tail. Despite the short length, the tail is longer than often expected (about 6" usually) and can be quite animated. Covered with black spots, the ears are often tufted with black hair. There are 12 recognized subspecies across the United States. Despite substantial encroachment on its original habitat and range, populations persist and remain healthy. Bobcat sightings are fairly common. They are often mistaken for the much larger mountain lion. Bobcats most often hunt small mammals such as rabbits but it will also take rodents, insects, birds and even deer. Bobcats are generally solitary and territorial. Although bobcats are mostly nocturnal, it is not uncommon to see them during the day. They are most active at twilight and dawn. Reports and studies vary on the size of bobcat ranges; 8 to 40 sq mi are useful estimates. Two-four kittens are usually born in April or May with a second litter possible as late as September. The kittens often start exploring around 4 weeks after birth and travel with their mother at 3-5 months. Bobcat tracks can generally be recognized by their size and lack of claw marks. Bobcats, as with all felines, have retractable claws. Their claws are not visible in their tracks. Domestic cat tracks are approximately 1.5" sq, bobcat tracks approx. 2" sq, mountain lion 4" sq. When walking or trotting, the tracking will be 8-18" apart. When running 4-8' apart. Bobcats directly register -- the back foot steps on the same spot as the front foot. Adult bobcats have few predators -- disease, accidents, hunters, autombiles and starvation are the leading causes of death. Mountain lions are one of their few natural predators. As kittens, there is more to worry about -- owls, eagles, coyotes, foxes, and other bobcats. caption: file: x - square 0" x 0" at 300 dpi - release: contact us regarding image add image to lightbox References http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bobcat Alden, Peter, and Fred Heath. National Audubon Society Field Guide to California. New York: Knopf, 1998.