A Study of Bobcats Along the Urban/Wildlands Interface 

In association with the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center and with funding from an Arizona Game and Fish Department Heritage Grant, and private donors 

Bobcats are an iconic wildlife species in the southwest. They have generally adapted to utilizing the urban/wildlands interface successfully. However, little is known about the specifics of this behavior and the natural history components of the adaptations. Public perceptions of the bobcat’s presence are mostly positive and provide a foundation for support of management actions and watchable wildlife viewing opportunities in support of their continued presence as urban wildlife.    

Using habitat selection and use data from radio collared bobcats utilizing urban and adjacent wildland habitats of Tucson Mountain Park, and Saguaro National Park near Tucson, we will develop strategies and outreach materials to reduce the risk of conflict, increase homeowner, neighborhood, city and state wide appreciation of bobcats as watchable wildlife, and add to our scientific knowledge of urban bobcats.