Also known as: Wildcat
Bobcat Report a Bobcat Sighting Fact Sheet Bobcats are about twice the size of a domestic cat with relatively long legs, short, bobbed tail, pointed ears and a facial ruff. Bobcats have soft, medium-length fur that ranges from reddish to gray, with a highly variable amount of black spotting. Their bellies are typically white with black spots. Tracks: Front/Rearβ 2" L,1-3/4" W Walking stride: 6" - 14" Total Length 29-46 inches Weight 15-38 pounds Fun Facts: Bobcats are members of the lynx genus and are often confused with the Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis). Bobcats are differentiated from Canada lynx by their shorter ear tufts, less distinct facial ruff , smaller feet, and tail tip that only has black on top (tail tip of the Canada lynx is black on top and bottom). However, bobcats and Canada lynx have been known to hybridize in the wild.
Habitat & Range
Bobcats prefer rugged or wooded habitats that afford them the ability to stalk prey. Breeding Season February-March Gestation Period 60 days Litter Size 2-4 (average 3) Social Aspects Solitary, except when breeding or rearing young.
Life History
Food: Bobcats are strictly carnivorous, with rabbits their primary prey. The rest of their diet is made up of other small rodents such as squirrels, mice and voles. However, bobcats are opportunistic, so they will take advantage of other prey such as birds and deer (mostly fawns or carrion).
Status, Trends & Threats
Bobcats are primarily found in the western Badlands and northeastern Pembina Gorge regions, but also occur along streams and rivers elsewhere in the state. There is a regulated hunting and trapping season for bobcats.
Hunting Season
Zone 1 (west of US 83): Nov 8 β Mar 15; Zone 2 (rest of state): Nov 24 β Mar 15
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Bobcat in North Dakota
Bobcat hunting in North Dakota is for residents only. Zone 1 (west of US 83): firearms/archery Nov 8 β Mar 15; cable devices/dogs from Nov 24. Zone 2: Nov 24 β Mar 15, limit 1 per person with zone-wide harvest cap of 8. Mandatory tagging: carcass (including head) presented to Department within 14 days of season close or before sale.
When is Bobcat hunting season in North Dakota?
Zone 1 (west of US 83): Nov 8 β Mar 15; Zone 2 (rest of state): Nov 24 β Mar 15
What is the bag limit for Bobcat in North Dakota?
Zone 1: no limit per person; Zone 2: 1 per person (zone-wide cap of 8)
What's another name for Bobcat?
Bobcat is also known as Wildcat in North Dakota.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Zone 1 (west of US 83): Nov 8 β Mar 15; Zone 2 (rest of state): Nov 24 β Mar 15 | Link |
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Bobcat hunting in North Dakota is for residents only. Zone 1 (west of US 83): firearms/archery Nov 8 β Mar 15; cable dev | Link |
