How To Keep Bobcats Away
Bobcats, also known as Lynx rufus, are elusive and solitary wild cats native to North America. While they are crucial to maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, they can pose potential damages.
Damage that Bobcats Cause
The reason you may be looking to keep bobcats away is likely because of the damage they cause. Some of the most common issue bobcats cause include:
Livestock Loss: Bobcats are known to prey on small livestock such as chickens, ducks, and goats. They can attack and kill these animals, causing financial loss to farmers and homesteaders who raise livestock.
Pet Loss: Bobcats may pose a threat to small pets, including outdoor cats and small dogs. They can view them as prey and may attack or kill them, leading to emotional distress and loss for pet owners.
Crop Damage: While bobcats are not known to be crop pests, they may occasionally damage crops in search of prey. For example, they may dig up gardens or disturb agricultural fields while hunting for rodents.
Property Damage: Bobcats are wild animals that may roam onto properties and potentially cause damage. They can dig holes, damage fences, or disturb landscaping while in pursuit of prey or seeking shelter.
Poultry House Raids: Bobcats may break into poultry houses or enclosures to prey on chickens, ducks, or other domestic fowl. They can cause damage to enclosures or infrastructure while attempting to access prey.
Nuisance Behavior: Bobcats may exhibit nuisance behavior in urban or suburban areas, such as rummaging through trash cans or creating disturbances at night. While not causing direct damage, such behavior may be considered undesirable by property owners.
How to Keep Bobcats Away
If you live in an area where bobcats are known to frequent and want to keep them away from your property, here are some effective tips on how to do so.
Remove Attractants: Bobcats are opportunistic predators that are drawn to areas where they can find food, water, or shelter. To keep bobcats away, make sure to eliminate any potential attractants from your property. This includes securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids, cleaning up fallen fruits or vegetables, and removing any pet food or water dishes from outside.
Install Fencing: Installing sturdy and tall fencing can be an effective deterrent to keep bobcats away from your property. Use materials such as welded wire or hardware cloth that are difficult for bobcats to climb or jump over. The fence should be at least 6 feet tall and buried at least 1-2 feet underground to prevent bobcats from digging underneath it.
Keep Livestock Secure: If you have livestock on your property, ensure their safety by providing them with secure enclosures or pens. Bobcats are known to prey on chickens, goats, and other small animals. Use sturdy and durable materials to construct enclosures and consider using electric fencing as an additional deterrent.
Remove Sheltering Sites: Bobcats are known to seek shelter in dense vegetation, piles of debris, or other hiding spots. Keep your property clean and tidy by removing potential sheltering sites. Clear away brush, trim overgrown vegetation, and remove piles of debris to reduce hiding places for bobcats.
Use Scare Tactics: Bobcats are naturally wary of humans, but you can use scare tactics to reinforce their fear of your property. Use motion-activated lights, loud noises like sirens or horns, or even a barking dog to deter bobcats from coming near your property. You can also use commercial repellents specifically designed for bobcats, which are available in the market.
Avoid Feeding Wildlife: Bobcats are opportunistic hunters and can be drawn to areas where there is an abundance of prey. Avoid feeding wildlife, such as deer or rodents, on your property, as this can attract bobcats as well. If you have bird feeders, clean up spilled seeds regularly, as they can attract small mammals that bobcats prey upon.
Keep Pets Indoors: If you have small pets, such as cats or small dogs, keep them indoors or supervise them when they are outside. Bobcats can perceive small pets as potential prey, and keeping your pets indoors or supervised can prevent encounters with bobcats.
Seek Professional Help: If you have persistent bobcat problems despite taking preventive measures, it's best to seek professional help. Contact your local wildlife or animal control agency for advice on how to handle bobcat conflicts. They may provide additional strategies or even offer trapping and relocation services, which should be carried out by the trained professionals at Wildlife X Team.
It's important to remember that bobcats are protected under state and federal laws, and it is illegal to harm or kill them without proper permits or authorization. Therefore, always use humane methods to deter bobcats from your property and ensure you are abiding by local regulations.
To be sure you’re in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, it’s best to trust the professionals at Wildlife X Team if you suspect bobcats are in your area. Give our experts a call today to remove bobcats in your area.