Counting Bobcats

We are evaluating different ways to monitor the abundance and distribution of bobcats throughout the state. Right now, we have several sources of information: road-killed bobcats, deer hunter reports, and incidental observations that are sent to us by people throughout the state. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. We are interested in comparing these indices to a more rigorous effort using trail cameras. So, from approximately October 15, 2013 to early December, we are asking for volunteers that own trail cameras to help us.

Basically, volunteers will identify an area from our maps (see right panel) where they can obtain landowner permission and position their cameras for a 14-day sampling period. Volunteers will follow a specific protocol that we have designed. It includes specific scents to attract bobcats and positioning cameras in a prescribed fashion. This will ensure that everybody is using the same technique.

If you have a trail or game camera that takes digital pictures, we want to hear from you. Identify the sampling unit that you can cover. For example, if you are interested in North Hampton, you would select unit C-51 from the study area map C (see right panel for maps). Once we have an idea of how many of you are willing to participate, we will hold a short training session where we will distribute needed supplies and demonstrate how to set up your camera. We will not be able to supply cameras. From our experience, cameras older than 3-5 years are prone to malfunction. So, be sure your camera is in good working order.

If you are interested in helping count bobcats, please contact Tyler Mahard by sending an email to: UNHbobcat@gmail.com

Those of you who do not own trail cameras may still assist our efforts by reporting incidental observations of bobcats that may occur (see Report Your Observations, left panel).