Now Is the Time to Spot This Elusive Predator in New York

While many New Yorkers may be tearfully saying goodbye to summer, there's a silver lining: now is the time to see one of the state's most fascinating and elusive predators.

There is an impressively large variety of sharp-toothed hunters in the northeast. From the only venomous mammal in North America (that lives right here in New York) to more common sights like fox and coyote, the local ecosystem can be full of carnage. This season, however, there will be some cuteness mixed in.

The Result of Mating Season in New York State

The reason for the increased visibility is the same as for most animals: breeding season. Similarly to how many New Yorkers were surprised to find baby deer in their yards just months ago, another animal will soon start bringing their young out into the world.

Increased Bobcat Sightings Likely in New York State

"Caution. Bobcat crossing", began a recent post from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC, below). They went on to explain that the late summer/early fall season is prime time to catch a glimpse of a mother bobcat and her young.

Bobcat Populations in New York State

Bobcat populations in New York have been on a bit of a rollercoaster. Once considered a nuisance species up to the 1970s, they have since been given several protections by New York State. Unfortunately, populations remain critically low in several areas of the state.

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As with all wildlife, a mother bobcat and her young (called kits) should only be observed at a distance. New Yorkers are also encouraged to report their sighting (as well as sightings of any other furbearing animal) to the NYS DEC here.