Bobcats are known to make a number of different sounds, including screams, growls, and even purrs. But why do they make these noises?
Bobcats are actually quite vocal creatures and use a variety of sounds to communicate with one another. They’ll often scream or growl when they’re feeling threatened or aggressive, and they may also purr when they’re content or happy.
So, if you hear a bobcat making any of these noises, it’s likely because the animal is trying to send a message.
What Sound Does Bobcat Make?
Below, we’ll take a closer look at the different sounds bobcats make and what they might mean.
Screams
Bobcats will sometimes let out blood-curdling screams, which can be quite alarming if you’re not expecting it. These screams are usually reserved for moments of extreme excitement or fear, such as when the animal is being chased by a predator.
Growls
Bobcats will also growl when they’re feeling threatened or aggressive. This is usually a warning sign that the animal is about to attack, so it’s best to back off if you hear a bobcat growling nearby.
Purring
In contrast to their screams and growls, bobcats will purr when they’re feeling content and happy. This is often seen as a sign of affection, similar to the way a domestic cat might purr when being petted.
Meow
Bobcats make the same use of meows as house cats. Meows are a call for attention or a request for notice. A chirp sounds like a bird song, but it is spoken in place of a meow.
Hisses
Hissing is usually accompanied by spitting in order to warn other animals not to come closer. This sound isn’t meant as an act of aggression, but rather as a defense mechanism.
Howls
If a mother bobcat cannot locate her offspring, she will yowl and howl to attract their attention. They utilize these sounds to find one another during their limited social encounters. You may hear a scream that sounds like a drawn-out meow if they are injured and in discomfort.
Why Do Bobcats Make These Sounds?
Bobcats make these sounds for a variety of reasons, but the main purpose is to communicate with one another.
Screams and growls are typically used as warning signs, letting other animals know that the bobcat is feeling threatened or aggressive. Purring, on the other hand, is usually a sign of contentment and can be seen as a form of communication between mother and child or between mates.
Bobcats also make these sounds to mark their territory. By screaming or growling, they can let other animals know that this is their territory and that they should stay away.
Why Do Bobcats Scream At Night?
One of the main reasons bobcats scream at night is to communicate with one another. Since they’re nocturnal animals, they’re most active during the nighttime hours.
Screaming is one way that bobcats can let others know where they are and what they’re doing. It’s also thought to be a way of signaling danger or warning other animals of potential predators in the area.
So, if you hear a bobcat screaming at night, it’s likely because the animal is trying to communicate with others in its pack.
Do Bobcats Make Noise When Hunting?
No, bobcats are actually quite silent when they’re hunting. They use their keen sense of smell and hearing to track down their prey, and they’re able to move stealthily through the brush to avoid detection.
Bobcats will only make noise when they’re attacking their prey, which is usually a quick and deadly strike. After the kill, bobcats will typically drag their prey into the brush to eat in peace.
So, if you’re out hunting and you hear a loud noise in the distance, it’s probably not a bobcat. More likely, it’s another animal, such as a deer or an elk.
Do Bobcats Hibernate?
No, bobcats do not hibernate. They are able to withstand cold weather by growing thicker fur during the winter months.
Bobcats will also spend more time in dens during the winter, which helps to protect them from the elements and provides a place to rest and escape the cold.