Bobcat #157 was trapped in a box trap. |
Q. How many bobcats can be found in Iowa?
A. In the southern part of the state, approximately 1,200-2,400. We do not have an estimate that applies to the entire state.
Q. Why have bobcat numbers in Iowa increased in recent years?
A. Iowa bobcats have a healthy reproductive and survival rate and the population within the state could be naturally growing from within. Bobcats have also become more abundant in adjacent states and they could be dispersing into Iowa. We are conducting research to determine how these combination of factors influences the growth rate.
Q. Will population dynamics of bobcats change if there is a trapping season?
A. Based on current population estimates, the bobcat population will increase or maintain current numbers given a trapping season.
Q. Does the DNR receive complaints/concerns about bobcats in Iowa?
A. No, there have been essentially no complaints about bobcats, although people often ask whether they will attack livestock or reduce game populations. Bobcats do eat livestock, especially sheep and chickens, although this is uncommon and the impact is generally minor.
Q. How is the Bobcat Project funded?
A. This project is supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service State Wildlife Grant and matching funds from the DNR and Iowa State University.
Q. Why is data from bow hunters utilized by the project?
A. A sample of bow hunters were selected to record their observations of bobcats and other “difficult-to-survey” wildlife while they were hunting deer. This survey provides a means to systematically document statewide distribution. Each year since 2004, approximately 1,500 response were received from bow hunters throughout Iowa. From these results, it is estimated that a bow hunter would need to be in their deer stand for approximately 150 hours in order to see a bobcat in Southern Iowa.
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