The Bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a medium-sized North American feline recognized for its distinct appearance and ability to thrive across diverse habitats. Distributed from southern Canada to Mexico, its secretive nature often makes identification challenging. This article establishes the bobcat’s definitive physical traits and provides clear distinctions from other animals frequently mistaken for this wildcat.
Identifying the True Bobcat
The bobcat is the smallest member of the Lynx genus, but it is substantially larger than an average house cat. Adult males typically weigh 14 to 40 pounds, while females are smaller, weighing 8.8 to 33.7 pounds. Standing 12 to 24 inches high at the shoulder, the bobcat has a muscular build and longer hind legs that assist its powerful jumping and pouncing ability.
The coat is variable, generally appearing tan to grayish-brown, often marked with dark spots and streaks that provide excellent camouflage. Bobcats in southern, arid regions tend to have lighter coats, while those in northern forests exhibit darker fur. A defining feature is the namesake “bobbed” tail, which is notably short (3.5 to 7.9 inches). The tail is typically black on the top near the tip and whitish underneath.
The ears are pointed and black-tipped, sometimes displaying short tufts of black hair. The face is broad due to prominent cheek ruffs of extended hair beneath the ears. These physical features—the coat pattern, tail, and facial structure—serve as the standard reference points for differentiation.
The Closest Match: Distinguishing the Canada Lynx
The most common source of confusion is the Canada Lynx (Lynx canadensis), especially where the two species coexist in the northern bobcat range. Both cats share the genus Lynx and possess short tails and tufted ears. The Canada Lynx appears larger and more robust, though its weight (10 to 38 pounds) slightly overlaps the bobcat’s. This apparent size difference is largely due to the lynx’s shaggier coat and disproportionately long hind legs, which create a distinctive stooped posture.
The size and structure of the paws are a primary differentiator. Canada Lynx have enormous, heavily furred paws that function like natural snowshoes, allowing efficient travel across deep snow. These paws are at least twice the size of a bobcat’s, which lack the heavily furred soles. Additionally, the black tip on the lynx’s tail completely encircles the end, appearing as a solid black band. The bobcat’s tail, in contrast, is black only on the top surface near the tip.
The ear tufts also offer a clear distinction; the Canada Lynx possesses much longer and more prominent tufts, often exceeding one inch. The bobcat’s tufts are noticeably shorter and less pronounced. Furthermore, the lynx’s coat is typically a bland, grayish color with fewer markings, suiting its snowy habitat, while the bobcat exhibits a reddish-brown coat with distinct spotting and streaking.
Mistaken Identity: Other Commonly Confused Animals
Misidentification often occurs when observers mistake canids—coyotes and foxes—for the bobcat. Coyotes (Canis latrans) are often confused due to their similar overall size, typically weighing around 35 pounds. However, the bobcat is a feline, defined by a short, blunt snout, a muscular body, and a rounded head. Coyotes and foxes, being canids, have long, pointed snouts and a more slender, elongated body profile.
The tail is another obvious difference; canids have long, bushy tails that typically drag low, unlike the bobcat’s short, erect “bob.” Their movement patterns are also distinct: canids move with a purposeful, straight-line trot, while felines utilize a stealthy, four-beat walk or stalk. Furthermore, canid tracks usually show claw marks because their claws are non-retractable, whereas a bobcat’s retracted claws rarely leave an impression.
Large feral or muscular domestic cats are frequently mistaken for young or small bobcats. However, the bobcat is significantly larger, weighing up to 30 pounds, which is two to three times the weight of an average domestic cat. The bobcat’s legs are thicker and more muscular, and its tracks are considerably larger, measuring two to 2.5 inches wide, compared to domestic cat tracks (closer to one inch wide). The bobcat’s wide facial ruffs and the presence of spotting or streaking further distinguish it from even the largest of domestic cats.