Extensive hunting in the 1970s decimated the ranks of this North American cat, which apparently derived its name from its short "bobbed" tail. Its range extends from Mexico, across the western United States, and into northern Canada. The bobcat survives mainly on rabbits and small mammals but is capable of bringing down a deer by jumping on its back and biting and scratching its neck until it falls. An adult bobcat reaches 91 centimeters (36 inches) in length and weighs 9 kilograms (19.8 pounds). |
