iN PHOTOS: Elusive, stealthy bobcats caught on cameras in Thompson-Okanagan

Living in suburban areas and surrounding forests of the Thompson-Okanagan is a stealthy, elusive and camouflaged wild cat, that is, the bobcat.

In BC, these medium-sized cats are scattered across the southern part of the province, but being nocturnal, solitary creatures it isn’t common to see one.

The cats are shy, typically silent, and avoid humans, according to the Institute for Environmental Research and Education , however some of them were observed in the region this summer and fall, including very young ones.

A young family in Osoyoos got a rare wildlife sighting earlier this year when a bobcat kitten showed up their backyard.

Named for their bobbed tails, these animals are known for their ability to adapt to a variety of ecosystems and suburban landscapes. They’re built for agility, and equipped with sharp teeth and claws, and acute vision and hearing that make them adept predators.

The tawny-coated cats prey on rodents and small animals which helps keep the ecosystem healthy and balanced.

Bobcats are territorial with each other and mark their territories with urine, feces and scratch marks. Typically silent, they’ll hiss, growl and scream during mating season.

If one is lucky enough to see a bobcat, it is advised to give it lots of space and never feed it.

Do you have a photo of a bobcat taken this year? Send it to news@infonews.ca