Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Where do bobcats live in the United States, Canada, and Mexico?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
lynx
Also known as the Spanish lynx or the Pardel lynx, the species bears a strong resemblance to the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), but it may be distinguished by its smaller size; short, dark-tipped tail; and the presence of long, white, beardlike fur under its chin.
The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is found across a wide range in North America, spanning from southern Canada to southern Mexico.1
- United States: The species occurs throughout the contiguous United States, with the exception of Delaware.1
- Canada: Its range extends into the southern regions of the country.1
- Mexico: The bobcat is found as far south as the states of Oaxaca and Baja California Sur.1
Bobcats are highly adaptable and occupy diverse habitats, including conifer, deciduous, and mixed forests, as well as grasslands, swamps, deserts, and scrublands. While they are generally solitary and prefer areas with sufficient cover, they can occasionally be found in suburban areas or near agricultural land. They typically avoid deep snow and are rarely found at elevations above 3,500 meters.1