Bobcats: A Rare but Potential Threat
Bobcat Encounters
Bobcats are generally not aggressive toward humans and typically avoid contact. However, they may attack if they feel threatened, especially if they have kittens nearby.
Health Concerns
Bobcats can carry diseases such as Bartonella cat scratch fever and Toxoplasmosis, which can be transmitted to humans through bites or scratches. However, such transmission is very rare.
Animal-Human Interactions
Left undisturbed, bobcats pose minimal risk to humans. However, in rare cases, they can become dangerous, particularly if they are rabid. Bobcat attacks on humans are extremely uncommon and usually occur when the animal is infected with rabies.
On the other hand, backyards do pose a potential threat. Bobcats are often drawn to residential areas due to the presence of potential prey, such as rodents and small animals.
Hunting and Fur Trade
Bobcats are also hunted for their distinctive soft fur, which is highly valued in the fur trade. This demand has led to increased trapping and exportation of bobcats.
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