There have been several bobcat sightings this year in Chestermere.
Bobcats are highly adaptable and if living in or near human development may lose their fear of people and the noises of the city.
It is extremely unlikely that a bobcat will attack a human. They are opportunistic hunters. If bobcats are known to be in the area, keep cats indoors and supervise small dogs when they are in the yard, as they may be vulnerable.
How to prevent bobcats from coming to your property
To prevent conflict with bobcats, remove the food, shelter or water that may attract them to your property:
- Do not feed wildlife.
- Keep your garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Put your garbage and recycling out only on the morning of collection, not earlier.
- Do not leave pet food outdoors.
- Remove bird feeders and bird baths so bobcats are not drawn into your yard to prey on the birds.
- Trees, shrubs and even grass should be kept trimmed so there is no shelter for bobcats to hide in. Spaces under decks and outbuildings should be closed off for the same reason.
- Add motion detector lighting to walkways and driveways.
- Dogs, rabbits, chickens or other animals that live outdoors should be kept in a secure enclosure with a strong roof.
Be sure that the bobcat has not made a den for kittens somewhere on your property. Bobcat kittens are usually born April to June and they stay with their mother for up to a year. Look for open spaces under decks, outbuildings or in trees, shrubs or piles of debris for den locations.
If there are no kittens, be sure the bobcat has an escape route – open gates on your property and do not block its exit. The bobcat will leave in its own time. If the bobcat is reluctant to leave, consider spraying it with a garden hose until it does leave.
Contact
The Alberta Fish and Wildlife Officers will respond when there is a threat to public safety. Call Alberta Fish and Wildlife if you are concerned for your own safety or the safety of others:
Calgary office (403-297-6423).