Bobcats and lynxes are two of the most popular wild cats in North America. Although they may look quite similar, there are a few distinguishing characteristics and behaviors that set them apart. Here, we will discuss the differences between Bobcats and Lynxes.

Physical Appearance:

Bobcats are usually smaller in size than lynxes. They weigh anywhere from 13 to 30 pounds and measure between 18 to 26 inches in height. The most recognizable feature of a Bobcat is its stubby tail, which is usually around 5 to 8 inches long. They have short, pointy ears, and spotted or striped coats that come in shades of brown, gray, and reddish-brown.

Lynxes are slightly larger in size than Bobcats and typically weigh between 18 to 24 pounds. They are around two feet tall and have long legs, large paws, and fluffy ear tufts. Their coat color varies from grayish-brown to reddish-brown with distinctive black spots on their fur. They have a short tail that is always tipped with black.

Habitat:

Bobcats are found throughout North America and are adaptable to a wide range of environments, from forests to swamps, deserts, and even urban areas. However, they tend to prefer dense vegetation cover nearby open areas through which they can hunt.

Lynxes are found in colder regions of North America, including Canada, Alaska, and the northern states. They are also found in European forests and can adapt well to a variety of habitats, including coniferous and deciduous forests, taiga, and tundra.

Diet:

Both Bobcats and Lynxes are carnivores and their diet mainly consists of rodents, rabbits, and small mammals. Lynxes have been known to eat larger prey like deer in the winter months when their food sources are scarce. Bobcats are skilled predators and have been known to hunt larger prey like deer and wild pigs as well.

Behavior:

Bobcats are solitary creatures and only come together during mating seasons. They are nocturnal hunters and are mostly active at dawn or dusk. They live in dens that they either make for themselves under fallen trees, rock piles, or in caves.

Lynxes are also solitary animals and only come together during mating season. They are crepuscular, which means that they are most active during dawn and dusk. They are also known to climb trees to scan for prey, and their large paw sizes help them walk on the snow more effortlessly.

Conclusion:

Bobcats and lynxes have many similarities in their physical appearance, habitat, diet, and behavior. However, they also have several differences that distinguish one from the other. While Bobcats are smaller and can adapt to a wider range of habitats, lynxes are typically found in colder regions and larger in size. So, both of them are amazing animals in their own way!