Canadian Wild Cats

Many Canadian wild cats can be found in the forests and other low-population areas. The three most common species are the Bobcat, Canadian Lynx, and Cougar. Unfortunately, poaching and fur traders have taken their toll on these Canadian wild cat populations, but they are now more likely to be protected by law. Here is a basic guide to the types of wild cats you may encounter in Canada.

Canadian wild cats: The Bobcat

The Bobcat is one of Canada's wild cat species, being most prevalent in Nova Scotia. They are small for wild cats, but very strong and muscular. Canadian Bobcats usually have a light gray or dark reddish coat and tend to live alone. During mating season the Bobcat will seek out a mate and establish a den for their litter. If a proper wild cat's den cannot be found, the Bobcats will raise their kittens inside of a hollowed-out log, under ledges, behind dense shrubs, or anywhere else that provides enough shelter and protection from predators. While still abundant in Canada, this species of wild cat is becoming more endangered because of the popularity of their skin for fur traders, along with the spreading population into areas that were once the Bobcat's habitat.

Canadian wild cats: The Canadian Lynx

The Canadian Lynx looks similar to the Bobcat because of its facial features, black ears, and short tail. The best way to tell the difference is to look at the wild cat's tail. A Canadian Lynx will have a black-tipped tail, while a Bobcat will not. There are few locations in the United States where you can find the Canadian Lynx, but they are most common in the forests of Canada's Northern regions. The Canadian Lynx is a predator, hunting small local animals like ducks, pheasants, rabbits, rodents, and young deer. When hunting, this wild cat prefers to stalk its prey at night, sometimes waiting for hours until the right time to strike. Unlike many other types of wildlife, the Canadian Lynx often hunt as a family, with the mothers and offspring helping to corner the prey.

Canadian wild cats: The Cougar

The Cougar is one of the few Canadian wild cats that has been designated as a protected species in most areas. However, there are still a couple of provinces that allow limited hunting of the Cougar. These large cats can be found anywhere in the Americas, from Canada all the way down to the tip of South America. Cougars differ from the rest of the wild cat species because they do not have a very good sense of smell. Cougars rely more on sight when hunting their prey.