Bobcats
- Do not feed the bobcat.
- Never leave pet food outside.
- Restrict use of birdseed. Bobcats are attracted to the birds and rodents that use the feeder
- If possible, eliminate outdoor sources of water. Generally, home owners cannot eliminate sources of water that attract bobcats (i.e., drip irrigation, fish ponds, bird baths). You might purchase a large water dish (as for a large dog), put it on the outside of your fence, and keep it filled with water.
- Trim and clear near ground level any shrubbery that provides cover for bobcats or prey.
- Use fencing to help deter bobcats. The fence must be at least six feet tall with the bottom extending at least six inches below ground level. Augment your existing fencing with outwardly inverted fencing, hot wire, or cement blocks and large rocks buried outside the fence line to prevent animals from digging into your yard.
- Actively discourage bobcats by making loud noises and throwing rocks to make them leave.
- Battery operated flashing lights, tape recorded human noises, scattered moth balls and ammoniasoaked rags strategically placed may deter bobcats from entering your yard.
- Keep cats and small dogs indoors, allowing them outside only under strict supervision.
- Keep chickens, rabbits and other small animals in well protected areas and in sturdy cages at night. Cages made of chicken wire are meant only for keeping small animals contained. They will not keep bobcats or other predators from entering. Stronger gauge wiring is a necessity in protecting these small animals.
- Trapping and relocation of bobcats is not a recommended or viable alternative. Wild animals are territorial and like species will simply take over the area vacated by the relocated or dead animal.
