An Epic Battle of Two Bobcats in a Tree

NWF supporter Rebecca Sabac had an incredible wildlife sighting recently. While driving down Highway 27 in the Everglades, something caught her attention. Up in a dead tree snag, about 30 feet high, sat a cat. With the kindest intentions, she pulled over to see if the cat needed help. This was no ordinary cat, it was this gorgeous bobcat.

Bobcat in tree snag by Rebecca Sabac
Photo by Rebecca Sabac.
Bobcat in a tree by Rebecca Sabac
Photo by Rebecca Sabac.
Rebecca waited around, concerned it was stuck. Eventually it climbed down, but was promptly chased back up by another bobcat. Thus began an epic battle. They climbed & fell, chased & snarled, fighting like crazy.

Bobcats fighting in a tree snag by Rebecca Sabac
Photo by Rebecca Sabac.
Bobcats fighting in a tree snag by Rebecca Sabac
Photo by Rebecca Sabac.
Bobcats fighting in a tree snag by Rebecca Sabac
Photo by Rebecca Sabac.
Rebecca’s 12-year old daughter Jamie Sabac was also there for the experience, and was rather impressed. She even caught a bit of video! This is surely a wildlife encounter that won’t be forgotten.

Facts About Bobcats

These photos sparked my own curiosity about bobcats. After a little research, I not only learned how to identify them, I also came across some interesting facts:

  • The bobcat got its name because of its stubby tail.
  • They are about twice the size of a typical house cat.
  • Bobcats are rarely seen by humans. This is because they are nocturnal and solitary.
  • They are only found in North America.
  • Bobcats are survivors, capable of finding food & shelter wherever they are.
  • They are ambush hunters, like the mountain lion. They stalk prey silently and wait for it to move within about 50 feet. Then they pounce!

Critical Everglades Habitat

The Everglades are internationally known for their extraordinary wildlife, including Florida panthersmanatees, and a huge host of birds such as roseate spoonbills, egrets, and wood storks.

The Florida panther, a species that depends on the Everglades habitat, is listed as endangered. Currently, there are fewer than 100 Florida panthers left in the wild. You can symbolically adopt a  Florida panther and help NWF protect and recover the wild places that sustain wildlife.

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Symbolically adopt a Florida panther today to help support our work to protect them and other wildlife.

A special thanks to Rebecca and Jamie Sabac for the wonderful photos and story!

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Published: February 20, 2014