Creature Feature: Bobcat

By MDC | January 1, 2024
From Xplor: January/February 2024
Body

Super Sneaker

When stalking prey, bobcats place their back paws in the footprints of their front paws, so no extra noise is made.

Camouflage Coat

A bobcat’s mottled grayish-tan fur helps it blend in with its surroundings so it can ambush prey or hide from danger.

Powerful Peepers

Although its eyes are as big as yours, a bobcat’s pupils open three times wider. This lets in more light, helping the hunter spot prey in the dark.

Claws for Alarm

A bobcat keeps its claws tucked into its paws so they stay razor sharp. It unsheathes its terrible toenails to climb trees, catch prey, and fight threats.

Brawny Bite

Strong jaw muscles help a bobcat bite with might. Pointy canine teeth pierce a rabbit’s spine to deliver a quick death.

Also In This Issue

Media
Red Shouldered Hawk
Body

Make this mini field guide to learn about Missouri’s birds of prey

Media
Muskrat
Body

Hungry muskrats are the architects of the marshes where they live.

This Issue's Staff

Artist – Matt Byrde
Photographer – Noppadol Paothong
Photographer – David Stonner
Designer – Marci Porter
Designer – Les Fortenberry
Art Director – Cliff White
Editor – Matt Seek
Subscriptions – Marcia Hale
Magazine Manager – Stephanie Thurber