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Global Animal Guide

Where Do Bobcats Live?

Quick answer

Bobcats are native to North America. Everywhere from southern Canada through the continental United States to Oaxaca in Mexico, in forest, desert, swamp, and suburban edge habitat.

By the Global Animal Guide editorial team Last reviewed How we research & review

Native range

Everywhere from southern Canada through the continental United States to Oaxaca in Mexico, in forest, desert, swamp, and suburban edge habitat.

Continents and countries

Bobcats occur across North America. Local populations depend on intact habitat, prey or food plants, and freedom from persecution.

Habitat types

Forests, deserts, swamps, and scrub across North America provide shelter and feeding grounds. Seasonal movement may follow rains, prey migrations, or breeding cycles.

Range changes

Historic range may exceed current distribution. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate shifts continue to affect where bobcats persist today.

FAQs

Where do bobcats live in the wild?

Everywhere from southern Canada through the continental United States to Oaxaca in Mexico, in forest, desert, swamp, and suburban edge habitat.

What do bobcats eat?

They feed on carnivore — rabbits, hares, rodents, and birds, varying by season and local habitat.

Are bobcats endangered?

Bobcats are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

How big is a bobcat?

Adults weigh about 10 kg and reach roughly 0.85 m long.

Sources

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