Bobcats are medium-sized wild cats, typically weighing between 15 and 35 pounds. They are highly adaptable predators that hunt rabbits, squirrels, mice, and birds -- but they will take small dogs, cats, and backyard chickens when the opportunity presents itself. That is usually what brings them into conflict with homeowners.
They are most active at dawn and dusk but can be out at any hour. Bobcats are territorial and will patrol a home range that can span several miles depending on prey availability. A bobcat that has found a reliable food source on or near your property -- whether that is your chickens, your small pets, or a dense rabbit population in your yard -- will return to that source consistently.
Bobcats do not typically den inside structures the way raccoons or squirrels do, but they will use crawlspaces, decks, wood piles, and dense vegetation as shelter. A female with kittens is particularly likely to find a quiet, sheltered spot on a property and stay put for weeks.
Unlike most nuisance wildlife, a bobcat that appears sick, disoriented, or unusually bold around people may be rabid or have distemper. This changes the urgency significantly -- a bobcat that shows no fear of humans needs to be reported and handled immediately.
No -- and this is one of the clearest cases where attempting DIY removal creates more problems than it solves.
Bobcats are protected under Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations. Trapping or relocating them without a license is illegal, and lethal removal requires specific authorization. Beyond the legal issue, a cornered or injured bobcat is genuinely dangerous. They are fast, strong for their size, and capable of causing serious injury.
What you can do to reduce conflict:
If a bobcat is actively preying on your animals, has denned on your property, or is showing signs of illness, stop there and call a professional. This is not a situation where deterrents are going to be enough.
K2 Kritter Solutions handles bobcat situations throughout the Colorado Springs area. We assess what is drawing the animal to your property, determine the appropriate course of action, and handle removal in compliance with Colorado wildlife law.
If you are seeing a bobcat regularly, losing animals, or dealing with one that seems sick or aggressive, do not wait. Call us at (719) 358-1856 or fill out our contact form to schedule an inspection.