Bobcats in Wyoming: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For

Bobcats in Wyoming are most likely found in the rugged terrain of the Bighorn Basin, the Red Desert, and the breaks along the North Platte River. They favor rocky ledges, canyon rims, and areas with sparse juniper or sagebrush. Unlike lynx, bobcats stay at lower elevations, rarely above 8,000 feet. Check the escarpments around Kaycee or the badlands near Rawlins for the best odds. For more on the state's wildlife, see our Wyoming wildlife hub.

See our state wildlife page for the next step.

Bobcats are crepuscular, most active during twilight hours. Plan your spotting trips for early morning or late evening, especially from late fall through early spring when they are more visible against snow or bare ground. Winter is the best season because bobcats hunt more actively and tracks last longer.

See our Bobcats guide for the next step.

Bobcat tracks are round and about 1.5-2 inches across, with four toes and no claw marks (claws retracted). Learn to distinguish them from domestic cat tracks: bobcat prints are larger and the heel pad is more asymmetrical. Look for scrapes along trails, often with urine or scat on top. Bobcats also scratch tree trunks to mark territory, leaving vertical claw marks on bark. For detailed track comparisons, visit our bobcat information page.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

In Wyoming, the only other wild cat is the Canada lynx, which is larger, has longer ear tufts, and huge furry paws. Bobcats have a short tail (4-6 inches) with a black tip on top only, while lynx tails are all black-tipped. The ruffed fur on the side of the face (muttonchops) is less prominent in bobcats. If you see a small cat with a stubby tail and spotted coat, it is almost certainly a bobcat.

A good pair of binoculars (8x or 10x) is essential for scanning distant rock faces. Bring a camera with a telephoto lens, packed snacks, and warm layers for cold mornings. Track identification guides or apps can help. Map out public lands like the Thunder Basin National Grassland or the Seminoe Mountains.