* Bobcat (Lynx rufus): This is the most common wild cat in the state. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and grasslands.
While the following wild cats have been spotted in Mississippi, they are not considered native to the state. This means they likely escaped from captivity or were introduced by humans:
* Cougar (Puma concolor): There have been occasional sightings of cougars in Mississippi, but it is extremely rare.
* Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis): This species is found in Central and South America, but there have been a few reports of them in Mississippi.
It's important to note that the presence of these non-native wild cats in Mississippi is highly debated, and there is no concrete evidence to confirm their permanent establishment in the state.