Bobcats in urban neighbourhood

Observation by Carrier Lefebvre:

I've lived in Calgary for 47 years. I've never seen a bobcat, let alone two together in an urban setting. These pictures were taken in my backyard as both bobcats were resting.

Comment by LEO Network Editors:

Thanks Carrier for your observation and the great pictures! We have added a few local stories as related articles to your post. Also of interest, is the guidance on bobcat sightings from the City of Calgary. According to their website (linked) there has been an upsurge in bobcat sightings this year, raising concern about property and pet safety. They offer several good general suggestions for Calgary residents, or anyone experiencing bobcat (or perhaps further North) lynx issues. Mike Brubaker

On your property:

Keep cats indoors and supervise small dogs. Dogs, rabbits or other animals that live outdoors should be kept in a secure enclosure with a strong roof.  Remove food, shelter or water that may attract them to your property.  Close off areas under decks and outbuildings. Add motion detector lighting to walkways and driveways.  If there are no kittens, be sure the bobcat has an escape route – open gates on your property and do not block its exit. The bobcat will leave in its own time. Trapping and relocating a bobcat several kilometers away is NOT an effective method of removing a bobcat from your property. Bobcats typically try to return to their original territories, often getting hit by a car or killed by a predator in the process. In many cases, moving bobcats will not solve the original problem because other bobcats will replace them and cause similar conflicts. The best solution is to make your property unattractive to wildlife by following these following tips. How to Prevent Bobcats from Coming to Your Property

To prevent conflict with bobcats, remove the food, shelter or water that may attract them to your property. Do not feed wildlife. Keep your garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids. Put your garbage and recycling out only on the morning of collection, not earlier. Do not leave pet food outdoors. Remove bird feeders and bird baths so bobcats are not drawn into your yard to prey on the birds. Trees, shrubs and even grass should be kept trimmed so there is no shelter for bobcats to hide in. Spaces under decks and outbuildings should be closed off for the same reason. Add motion detector lighting to walkways and driveways. Dogs, rabbits or other animals that live outdoors should be kept in a secure enclosure with a strong roof.

For more information on local wildlife officials, visit the link provided.