Bobcats in New Hampshire: where to look and what signs to watch for

Bobcats inhabit a variety of habitats across New Hampshire, but they favor dense forests with rocky outcrops, swamps, and brushy areas. They are most common in the southern and central regions, including the Merrimack Valley and the Lakes Region. Northern areas have lower densities, but sightings occur near the White Mountains. Start by exploring state parks like Pawtuckaway State Park or Bear Brook State Park, where terrain offers good cover.

Bobcats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. In winter, they may be more active during the day to conserve energy. Spring and summer see more nocturnal activity as females hunt for kittens. Your best odds for a sighting are early morning or late afternoon, especially near habitat edges where prey is abundant.

Bobcat tracks are roundish, 2 to 3 inches wide, with four toes and no claw marks (claws are retracted). The heel pad has two distinct lobes at the front and three at the back. Look for tracks in soft mud, snow, or dusty trails. Other signs include scrapes (small mounds of leaves and dirt) used for scent marking, and scat that is segmented and often contains fur or bones. Check around fallen logs or rocky crevices for dens.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Bobcats are larger than housecats, weighing 15 to 30 pounds, with a short “bobbed” tail (4 to 7 inches) tipped with black on top only. Their ears are tufted, and they have a ruff of fur along the cheeks. Compared to the Canada lynx, bobcats have smaller feet, longer legs, and a shorter tail. Lynx are also grayer and have fully black tail tips. For more details, visit our Bobcat animal hub and New Hampshire wildlife page.

Winter is the best season for finding signs because snow reveals fresh tracks and makes it easier to follow movement. Late winter (February to March) is also mating season, so bobcats may be more active and vocal. Spring provides opportunities to see kittens born in April or May, but always keep a respectful distance. Summer and fall offer longer daylight but lower activity levels.