Once you hear “wild cats,” you would possibly routinely consider a lion or tiger. Nonetheless, there are a number of breeds of untamed cats in North America. Three have a presence in Wisconsin: bobcats, Canada lynx, and cougars. Study extra about these felines, what to do should you encounter one, and find out how to hold your pets protected.
The three Forms of Wild Cats in Wisconsin
1. Bobcat
| Weight: | 11 to 30+ kilos |
| Size: | 26 to 41 inches |
| Scientific Identify: | Lynx rufus |
For those who spot a big feline within the distance, you would possibly ask your self, “Is {that a} bobcat or somebody’s pet cat?” Bobcats are sometimes mistaken for bigger domesticated cats just like the Maine coon. Probably the most distinguishing bodily function is the bobcat’s tail, which is shorter in relation to its physique than a pet cat’s tail.
Most bobcats are greater than a pet cat and might weigh over 30 kilos. Grownup females are usually smaller and shorter than their male counterparts. Within the northern a part of the state, bobcats dwell in forested, swampy areas. Within the southern portion, they dwell in larger, hillier areas. Bobcats hunt smaller recreation like rodents, rabbits, and squirrels. The wild cats have a everlasting house in Wisconsin.
2. Canada lynx
| Weight: | 15 to 30 kilos |
| Size: | 30 to 35 inches |
| Scientific Identify: | Lynx canadensis |
Canada lynx journey throughout the northern third of the state. They don’t breed in Wisconsin however journey to the state in pursuit of snowshoe hares. You can too see the wild cats in northern Minnesota and Michigan’s higher peninsula. The typical Canada lynx is barely smaller than a bobcat however has an extended tail. Lynx even have an extended tuft on the highest of their ears. As with bobcats, male lynx are barely greater than females. The lynx inhabitants is secure and widespread in Canada, however their protection vary within the U.S. is shrinking.
3. Cougar
| Weight: | 75 to 190 kilos |
| Size: | 72 to 95 inches |
| Scientific Identify: | Puma concolor |
Whereas confirmed cougar sightings in Wisconsin make the information, they’re uncommon. Many suspected cougars caught on path cameras transform different animals. Sightings confirmed by the Wisconsin Division of Pure Assets have occurred all through the state, apart from the far jap and southern counties.
The cougar is by far the most important wild cat on our checklist. Grownup males are noticeably bigger than females. For those who spot a cougar in actual life, it’s unlikely that you just’ll mistake them for a pet cat! Just like the Canada lynx, cougars don’t breed in Wisconsin. The cougar can be known as a mountain lion, panther, puma, and catamount.
Wild Cat FAQs
Study what to do should you encounter certainly one of Wisconsin’s wild cats and find out how to hold you and your pets protected.
How Do I Report a Wild Cat Sighting in Wisconsin?
The state’s DNR desires to find out about any doable cougar or Canada lynx sightings. You possibly can report sightings on-line at Large Mammal Observation Form.
Bobcats breed in Wisconsin and name the state house. Whereas seeing a bobcat is thrilling, it’s commonplace or a trigger for concern. You don’t must report uneventful sightings. Nonetheless, you may contact the DNR if a bobcat reveals uncommon habits, like coming near a residential space through the daytime.
How Many Cougars Are in Wisconsin?
The WI DNR doesn’t consider that cougars presently breed within the state. Specialists assume that cougar sightings listed below are transient males originating from South Dakota.
The DNR reported 18 confirmed sightings in 2021. Nonetheless, it’s doable that one cat was accountable for a number of sightings. Wildlife consultants don’t know exactly what number of cougars are current within the state, however they’re thought-about uncommon.
Will a Bobcat, Lynx, or Cougar Eat a Home Cat?
The unlucky reply is, “Sure.” All three species of Wisconsin wild cats are carnivores, and pet cats are simple prey. Preserve your cat on a harness outdoors or near your home in an enclosed pet playpen or “catio.”
What Ought to I Do if I See a Wild Cat?
A wild cat sighting in Wisconsin is uncommon. Bobcats, cougars, and Canada lynx are solitary animals. You probably received’t see one through the day because the wild felines are extra lively throughout twilight hours and at evening.
For those who see a wild cat, keep calm. Your first intuition is perhaps to run, however the cat will probably chase you. Stand tall and face the cat. Wave your arms and yell. Then slowly again away whereas nonetheless going through the cat.
Conclusion
The three wild cats in Wisconsin immediately are the bobcat, Canada lynx, and cougar. The one cat that wildlife consultants consider nonetheless breeds within the state are bobcats. The cougars and Canada lynx noticed in Wisconsin are transient and probably looking for meals. Wild cats are lively through the twilight hours and at evening. You possibly can hold your pets protected by preserving them indoors through the cats’ prime searching hours.
Learn extra: 2 Types of Wild Cats in Missouri (with Pictures)
Featured Picture Credit score: Priscilla Du Preez, Unsplash