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Wind Cave National ParkBobcats
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Wind Cave National Park
Bobcat
 
Bobcat - Felis rufus

NPS Photo by Mike Laycock

Bobcat - Lynx rufus
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Quick bobcat facts:

  • The bobcat has a short tail with a reddish brown or grayish colored coat.
  • An adult bobcat usually weighs between 11 and 20 pounds and older animals occasionally weigh as much as 35 pounds.
  • Bobcat dens are often recognized by a strong odor.
  • Bobcats are expert tree climbers and often seek refuge in them if they are available.
  • Their food consists mainly of small mammals and birds.
  • Breeding season for bobcats begins around February. The kittens are born approximately two months later with the average litter size being three. The kittens are weaned around 2 months and they stay with their mom until autumn.
  • Yearling females rarely breed during their first year, but they may mate between their first and second years and breed annually afterwards until 8-9 years of age.
  • Most bobcats are nocturnal and solitary.
  • Some may wander up 25 to 50 miles, but they usually stay within a 2 mile radius.
 
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American bison on the Wind Cave National Park prairie  

Did You Know?
The American bison is the largest terrestrial mammal in North America. Male bison can weigh a ton and can run 35 miles per hour. Do not approach bison. They weigh more and can outrun you.
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Last Updated: March 14, 2008 at 11:42 EST