Keep reading to discover more about these experts at camouflage and where you can find them in Washington State.
What kind of wild cats live in Washington State?
mammalWashington, bobcats aren’t easy to spot. Known for their short, stubby, black-tipped tails, bobcats are solitary creatures that prefer to live alone. They are also exceptionally territorial, and will not hesitate to defend their den. Canada lynx, which are often mistaken for a bobcats, are an endangered species with fewer than 100, remaining in the wilds of Washington. The Canada lynx has triangular ears with black tips and fluffy fur surrounding its face. It’s especially known for its large paws.
Differences Between a Canada Lynx and a Bobcat
The bobcat is easily confused with the Canada lynx thanks to their similar appearance. Both are native to North America and approximately the same size, but there are ways to tell them apart. One difference is paw size. Canada lynxes have much larger paws than bobcats. Their paws are larger and spread out to withstand the cold as lynxes live in colder climates. Ironically, the Canada lynx has a shorter tail than the bobcat! Canada lynxes’ tails range from 2 to 5 inches, whereas bobcats rarely have tails shorter than 3 inches, which can be as long as 8-9 inches. The Canada lynx prefers to make its home in heavily wooded areas, while bobcats are less particular and will live in swamps or marshes when other territories are not an option.
Where Do Bobcats Live?
Bobcats are found across the state of Washington. Their habitats range from heavily wooded areas and rock outcroppings to marshland, and even urban and suburban environs. Bobcats, whose diet includes small rodents and birds, typically make their dens and raise their kittens, with litters of up to six, in a hollow tree or under the cover of thick brush.
Bobcats in Washington State: Where Do They Go During The Day?
Though they are considered nocturnal, bobcats don’t require a lot of sleep , sleeping no more than 2-3 hours a day, which explains why they can be seen in broad daylight. Occasionally, bobcats will venture out into neighborhoods during daylight hours to search of food, but they’re more likely to be found lounging in their dens, which is how these stub-tailed cats spend the majority of their day. Bobcats are territorial, leaving marks and their scent in their territory. However, they also have multiple dens within a few square feet of each other, giving them more options for lounging! Though bobcats aren’t the only big cats in the state of Washington, they are the most common.
Up Next:
Bobcats in Texas: Types & Where They LiveBobcat Size Comparison: How Big are Bobcats? Incredible Bobcat Facts
