Fortunately for the state of Mississippi, bobcat populations are thriving, and the wild cats are a common sight in its forests, sometimes even in suburban settlements. No documented sightings of mountain lions, panthers, or cougars have been made in Mississippi in the past 100 years. Thus, the bobcat is the only remaining wild cat in the Magnolia State. This article will discuss everything you need to know about bobcats in Mississippi and other interesting facts.
Are There Bobcats in Mississippi?
Mississippi is one of the lucky states in the country that hosts a good number of bobcat populations despite its continuously changing environment and habitats. Bobcats are a common sight in the state, and you can find them in a wide range of habitats like pine plantations, briar thickets, or beaver swamps. It can be difficult to notice this wild cat because they are typically timid during the day and active at night. However, that doesn’t imply that they are uncommon. You just don’t see them often because of their shy, elusive nature and generally because they are nocturnal. The bobcat is the only wild cat species found in Mississippi but lives all over the state. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, cougars, sometimes known as mountain lions, pumas, or panthers, once roamed every state east of the Mississippi River. However, by 1900, systematic killing and trapping had nearly wiped them out. Bobcats have stunning coats that are mottled with black and have reddish-tan fur. Most of the United States, including Mississippi, is home to these cats.
Where Do Bobcats Live in Mississippi?
The bobcat population in Mississippi is not threatened or endangered in any way, so they are present in any part of the state, in every habitat they prefer. Sometimes, they may even lurk across human settlements and properties, especially when attracted to food. The entirety of the Magnolia State can host bobcat dens. They enjoy a variety of environments in the state, including pine woods and swampy bays, and they have lots of room to thrive there, thanks to the availability of wilderness. These cats have started to adjust to living in suburban settings, so they aren’t solely restricted to the forests. Bobcats prefer dense vegetation and areas that can hold a lot of small animals, especially rabbits. When it comes to bobcats, the thicker, the better. Historically, bobcats were found all over the lower 48 states and in some regions of southern Canada and northern Mexico. Some jurisdictions have outlawed bobcat hunting and trapping due to their states’ sharp decline in bobcat numbers.
Bobcat Hunting in Mississippi
Like in most states with abundant bobcat populations, bobcat hunting and trapping is legal in Mississippi. The bobcat hunting season in Mississippi is open from October 1 to 31 with a bag limit of 5 per day and 8 per party, then from November 1 to February 28 with no bag restriction. Artificial lights and electronic callers are authorized, and so is night hunting. Dogs are permitted to hunt with their owners, except for the spring turkey season. However, despite the feline’s reputation as a nuisance, it is illegal to shoot or kill bobcats on private property. Instead, assistance should be sought from a local game warden or animal control officer.
What Other Wild Cats Live in Mississippi?
The only wild cat species found in Mississippi is the bobcat, which is widespread throughout the country. Even so, it might not be surprising to see a cougar occasionally crossing from the West. Although cougars are not typically found in the east of the United States, there have been isolated sightings. While no one has yet to report such a sighting this year, there have been reports of cougars going great distances searching for home ranges in the east in online news publications. While only bobcats live in Mississippi today, the mountain lion used to be one of the area’s most lethal predators in the past. Through the 19th and 20th centuries, mountain lion populations rapidly decreased; now, most of them are found West of the Rockies. Although Florida is the cougars’ closest permanent home, they periodically travel thousands of miles, so it is conceivable to see one in Mississippi.
Are Bobcats in Mississippi Dangerous?
Human attacks are improbable since bobcats are normally shy, solitary animals that infrequently initiate contact with humans. However, if surprised or put in danger, they can become dangerous. Accidental contact is also possible since they are not always readily visible when they are there. Rarely can bobcats turn hostile, but those with rabies can attack and infect people. Seriously though, a fully grown bobcat possesses teeth and claws each only an inch long. It is rare for bobcats to harm people, and they typically only attack things bigger than themselves if they feel threatened or need defense. Make a lot of noise, swing your arms around, and run away if you spot a bobcat nearby or coming your way.
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