Bobcats

April 7, 2022

Question: Why is the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) doing a statewide bobcat study?

Answer: California Fish and Game Code (FGC), section 4158 tasks CDFW with developing a bobcat management plan to inform and coordinate management decisions regarding
bobcat populations. The bobcat management plan, due in 2025 to the State Legislature and California Fish and Game Commission, shall use credible science and utilize an ecosystem-based approach to complete five goals which can be summarized as follows:

1.  A statewide bobcat population estimate.

2.  An assessment of the overall health of the statewide bobcat population.

3.  A comprehensive strategy to manage bobcat populations and their habitat.

4.  An investigation of nonlethal solutions to prevent bobcat predation on livestock.

5.  Recommendations for regulatory or statutory changes to implement the bobcat management plan.

For more information about bobcat management, check out CDFW’s Science Spotlight article and Featured Scientist Interview on statewide bobcat research.