Best Time to See Bobcats in New Jersey
February, July and November is the best time to see bobcats in New Jersey. Based on 183 verified iNaturalist observations, here is exactly when bobcats are most active across the year in New Jersey.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
183 verified observations of bobcats in New Jersey, recorded across 12 months of the year on iNaturalist.
When bobcats are recorded in New Jersey
Peak month
February
22 records (12% of the year)
| Month | Observations | Share |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17 | 9.3% |
| Februarypeak | 22 | 12% |
| March | 14 | 7.7% |
| April | 11 | 6% |
| May | 18 | 9.8% |
| June | 14 | 7.7% |
| Julypeak | 21 | 11.5% |
| August | 15 | 8.2% |
| September | 9 | 4.9% |
| October | 5 | 2.7% |
| Novemberpeak | 19 | 10.4% |
| December | 18 | 9.8% |
Bobcats you are most likely to see
| Species | Verified observations |
|---|---|
| Bobcat | 183 |
Sightings of bobcats in New Jersey peak in February, when 22 of the year's 183 verified observations are logged — about 12% of the annual total. Activity stays high through February, July and November.
The quietest stretch is October, when bobcats are hardest to find — October sees just 5 records. If a reliable sighting matters, plan around the peak window rather than the off-season.
The bobcats you are most likely to encounter in New Jersey are Bobcat — the most-recorded species in the state. Each keeps its own seasonal rhythm, but the month-by-month pattern above reflects every reported sighting together.
Where to go
Best places to see bobcats in New Jersey
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail — National Scenic Trail
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area — National Recreation Area
- Great Egg Harbor River
- Morristown National Historical Park — National Historical Park
- Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument — Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument
- Gateway National Recreation Area — National Recreation Area
Plan your bobcat trip in New Jersey
Start with live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail, then compare a nearby stay and a broader wildlife backup before you lock in the trip.
GetYourGuide
Live tours nearbySee live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Use the live GetYourGuide widget to compare local departures and activity styles close to the main bobcat viewing area.
Booking.com
Stay nearbyStay near Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Compare hotels, cabins and lodges close to the best bobcat viewing area in New Jersey.
Viator
Broader backupBook a bobcat tour in New Jersey
Compare guided wildlife tours, boat trips and nature experiences if you want a second travel network beyond the live widget.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to see bobcats in New Jersey?+
February is the single best month, and the broader peak window runs through February, July and November, based on 183 verified iNaturalist observations.
When are bobcats hardest to see in New Jersey?+
October is the quietest month for bobcats in New Jersey, with only 5 verified records.
Are bobcats active year-round in New Jersey?+
Bobcats are recorded in 12 of 12 months in New Jersey, so they can be seen year-round, with a clear peak in February.
More places to see bobcats
More wildlife in New Jersey