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How have urbanization and vehicle collisions affected bobcats?

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Urbanization and vehicle collisions pose significant risks to bobcats, particularly in more developed areas. Increased urbanization can isolate bobcat populations, which restricts their movement and reduces gene flow between groups.1

Furthermore, as these animals navigate human-altered landscapes, they face the threat of collisions with vehicles. In urbanized environments, these accidents, alongside accidental rodenticide poisoning, are identified as specific threats to the species. While bobcats are generally adaptable and can sometimes be found in suburban areas with sufficient cover, these human-related pressures remain a concern for their long-term conservation.12