RJ

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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.

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Milestones

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Meet Our Other Residents

Bob

Remembering Bob, Our Bobcat In late August 2011, we put to rest our beloved Bobcat, Bob.This brave little cat tried hard but was overcome by severe medical conditions that had hurt him for many months. In addition to old age, he had signs of arthritis, heart murmurs and high blood pressure. All of that and […]

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Hank

Meet Hank, Our White Tiger Hank spent the first decade of his life in prison-like conditions at an Ohio tiger cub breeding facility that was shut down when the state enacted SB 310 - the Ohio Dangerous Wild Animals Act in 2014. Hank was rescued in 2015 along with his partner Crystal, and they were relocated […]

Learn more Sponsor Hank

Sitarra

Remembering Sitarra, Our Sweet Tiger Girl After rescuing the sanctuary's very first animals, tigers Raja and Natasha, we discovered that Natasha was pregnant. Sitarra and her sister, Tabu, were born here at Lions Tigers & Bears on November 8, 2002. Sitarra (which means "Star of India") weighed just 2 lbs 12 oz at birth. Sitarra […]

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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

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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

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24/03/14 | By: Bobbi Brink

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