Here are some tips to deter bobcats:
Prevention:
* Secure food sources: Bobcats are attracted to food, so make sure your garbage cans are tightly sealed, pet food is stored indoors, and bird feeders are hung high and out of reach.
* Remove potential shelter: Bobcats seek shelter in dense vegetation, so keep your yard trimmed and clear brush piles.
* Fence your property: A sturdy fence can help keep bobcats out, especially if it's at least 6 feet tall and has a solid bottom.
* Motion-activated lights and sprinklers: Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle bobcats and deter them from entering your property.
* Predator urine: Some people believe that applying predator urine (like coyote or wolf urine) around your property can deter bobcats. This is a less reliable method, but some find it helpful.
If you encounter a bobcat:
* Stay calm: Do not approach the bobcat or try to corner it.
* Make noise: Shout, clap your hands, or bang pots and pans to scare it away.
* Give it space: Allow the bobcat to retreat and do not chase it.
If you have livestock or pets:
* Keep them in secure enclosures: Ensure your animals are safely housed in fenced-in areas or barns.
* Be aware of their habits: Bobcats are most active at dawn and dusk, so be extra cautious during those times.
If you believe your property has become a regular haunt for bobcats:
* Contact your local wildlife agency: They may be able to offer advice or assistance with relocation or removal.
Important points to remember:
* Bobcats are generally shy and avoid humans: They are more likely to flee than attack.
* Attacks on humans are extremely rare: However, it's important to respect their presence and take precautions.
* Never feed a wild bobcat: This can make them habituated to humans and more likely to become a nuisance.
Remember, the most effective way to keep bobcats away is to make your property less attractive to them by removing food sources, shelter, and potential prey.