RJ

Click to hear RJ

RJ's “story” began when he was discovered by a truck driver on the side of the road near Los Angeles as a tiny and severely ill kitten. The driver decided to take him home, initially believing that RJ was a domestic kitten. However, it was only later that he realized RJ was actually a bobcat and made the decision to surrender him.

Watch RJ's Incredible Story

Milestones

.

Discovery and Rescue (March 2008): RJ was found on the side of the road near Los Angeles by a truck driver as a severely ill kitten, only a few weeks old.

.

Surrender (May 2008): After initially mistaking RJ for a domestic kitten, the truck driver realized he was a bobcat and surrendered him to animal rescue for proper care.

.

Determination of His Future: The animal rescue determined that RJ had been exposed to too much human interaction, making him unsuitable for release into the wild. They suspected he was a captive-bred bobcat.

.

Permanent Home at Lions Tigers & Bears: Lions Tigers & Bears welcomed RJ to their sanctuary, providing him a safe, lifelong home. The team also speculated that RJ's friendly behavior and unique characteristics were evidence of captive breeding, highlighting the larger issue of private ownership of wild animals.

hello world!

RJ's Gallery

sponsor RJ

Shop RJ Merch

shop here

Meet Our Other Residents

Junior

Junior and Miss Kitty had previously been in the care of private owners as pets in Arizona. However, a sudden turn of events occurred when one of the owners passed away, compelling the other owner to vacate her family home. Junior and Miss Kitty could not accompany her to her new residence, leaving her with […]

Learn more Sponsor Junior

Sallie

In October 2022, Susie and Sallie found their long-awaited freedom when they were rescued from the Tri-State Zoological Park in Maryland. This facility had been a defunct roadside zoo that had facedmultiple animal welfare violations over the years, ultimately leading to its closure. The path to this rescue was a lengthy and challenging one. PETA […]

Learn more Sponsor Sallie

Clarence

Meet Clarence, Our Bobcat Clarence was rescued from a fur farm in Ohio in 2015. Believe it or not - this was a legal operation! Clarence and a black bear living at the farm were seized by state officials after Ohio SB 310 - the Ohio Dangerous Wild Animals Act was passed. Clarence was kept […]

Learn more Sponsor Clarence

1 2 3 … 25 Next »

FAQ's

What do bobcats eat?

Bobcats are carnivores and have a diverse diet that includes rabbits, rodents, birds, and even deer. They are skilled hunters, using stealth and patience to ambush their prey.

Where do bobcats live?

Bobcats are native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, swamps, and even suburban areas. They are highly adaptable and thrive in diverse environments across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

How long do bobcats live?

In the wild, bobcats typically live 7-10 years, but in captivity, they can live up to 20 years with proper care, nutrition, and medical attention.

Are bobcats social animals?

No, bobcats are typically solitary animals. They establish and defend their own territories, only coming together briefly during mating season. Each bobcat marks its territory with scent markings and scratches.

How fast can bobcats run?

Bobcats can run up to 30 mph (48 km/h) in short bursts, usually when chasing prey or escaping danger. However, they rely more on stealth, climbing, and quick reflexes than long-distance speed.

Are bobcats endangered?

Bobcats are not currently endangered and are classified as a species of "Least Concern." However, habitat destruction, hunting, and the fur trade pose threats to some local populations. Conservation efforts help protect them from unnecessary harm.

How many bobcats are in captivity?

The exact number is unknown, but thousands of bobcats are kept in captivity, including in zoos, sanctuaries, and private ownership. Unfortunately, many are exploited for their fur, used in the pet trade, or kept in inadequate conditions. Ethical sanctuaries, like Lions Tigers & Bears, rescue bobcats from neglect and provide them with proper care for life.

Watch More Videos on Bobcats

hello world!

The Dangers of Cub Petting: Why It's Harmful and Unethical | Lions Tigers & Bears

Captivity Cruelty: The Dark Side of Private Wildlife Ownership | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego

An Urgent Crisis: Unraveling the Impact of the Illegal Wildlife Trade | Lions Tigers & Bears

Read More Related Articles

23/08/11 | By: Bobbi Brink

How Individuals Can Make a Difference for Abused Exotic Wildlife

Abuse, in all its forms, threatens the existence of exotic wildlife. Illegal trading, poaching, breeding for profit, and exploitation for entertainment all contribute to the suffering and decline of these animals. For example, poaching pushes iconic species like tigers, rhinos, and elephants to the brink of extinction, robbing future generations of the chance to witness […]

Encountering a Bear in the Woods? Safety Tips & Best Practices

What should you do when hiking or climbing the mountains and you come face-to-face with a bear in the woods? Read on to discover what you must do to ensure your safety and the bear's well-being. Understanding Bear Behavior The woods might have dangerous animals, but bears are intelligent animals that naturally want to avoid […]

Holiday Magic at the Sanctuary: Giving Back to Lions Tigers & Bears

The festive season is in full swing at Lions Tigers & Bears, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. This year, we’re turning the sanctuary into a hub of holiday magic and cheer for our rescued wildlife and the fantastic supporters like you who make all this possible. Here are a […]

619-659-8078

Stay The Night

Become A member

Attend a Fundraiser

Sanctuary Standards

The gift that gives

RJ