There are 13,229 recorded sightings of Bobcat in California, with 1,497 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in November through February.
When to See Bobcat in California
Most often reported in November through February.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 1,516 | Yes |
| February | 1,221 | Yes |
| March | 1,129 | No |
| April | 1,086 | No |
| May | 1,005 | No |
| June | 0 | No |
| July | 0 | No |
| August | 962 | No |
| September | 1,024 | No |
| October | 1,138 | No |
| November | 1,155 | Yes |
| December | 1,269 | Yes |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Bobcat sightings in California compare to other North American hubs:
A tawny, spotted wild cat named for its short, bobbed tail, which has a black bar on top and a white underside. It has tufted ears and a ruff of fur on the cheeks. It lives across Canada, the United States and Mexico in forest, desert, swamp and suburbs, hunting rabbits and rodents. Watch field edges at dawn and dusk, and check trail cameras and tracks.
Other Wildlife to Look for in California
Track Bobcat in California
See where Bobcat was reported near you — get alerts when wildlife is spotted nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Bobcat in California?
Bobcat is most often reported in California in November through February, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.
Where can I see a Bobcat in California?
There are 13,229 documented Bobcat records in California. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.
How can I find Bobcat sightings near me in California?
Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in California.