So You Think You Saw a Cat Out Back? A Guide to Oklahoma's Wild Felines (Because It Probably Wasn't Your Fluffy)
Ever been stargazing in the Oklahoma wilderness, only to catch a flash of movement and two piercing eyes in the dark? Maybe you heard a rustle in the bushes on your morning jog and glimpsed a sleek form disappearing into the trees. Hold on to your hats, animal enthusiasts (and small dog owners!), because Oklahoma's got a wilder side when it comes to feline friends.
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| What Wild Cats Are In Oklahoma |
The OG Cattitude: The Bobcat
Forget the maybes, Oklahoma definitely has bobcats! These spotted felines are the rockstars of the wild cat world, strutting their stuff in forests, prairies, and even casually strolling through your backyard (don't worry, they're more interested in bunny rabbits than a friendly game of yarn chase).
Fun fact: Bobcats are named for their, well, bobbed tails. It's like nature gave them a permanent bunny-hop boost.
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Mountain Lion Mystery: Fact or Fiction?
Now, the rumors get a little wilder here. Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are big cats with a reputation to match. Sightings of these elusive creatures pop up every now and then, but are they the real deal?
The truth is, mountain lions in Oklahoma are a bit of a cryptid (think Loch Ness Monster, but land-dwelling and furrier). There's a chance you might spot one, but it's highly unlikely. These shy cats prefer remote areas, and sightings are usually based on tracks, scat, or grainy trail cam footage (think Bigfoot, but definitely a cat).
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Word to the wise: Don't go chasing waterfalls...or mountain lions. If you do see one, admire it from afar (with a healthy dose of zoom on your camera) and then slowly back away.
So, what did I actually see?
Here's the thing: Oklahoma is full of wildlife that can look a bit cat-like in the moonlight. Feral housecats, for instance, can grow surprisingly large and lose their collars. Coyotes can also appear cat-like when they're on the prowl.
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Golden rule: If you're unsure, it's probably not a mountain lion. But hey, if you manage to snag a picture of this mystery meow-ster, send it to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. They might just be able to solve the case!
FAQs: Unleashing Your Inner Wildlife Whisperer
How to identify a bobcat: Look for a medium-sized cat with spotted fur, a bobbed tail, and black ear tufts.
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
How to avoid a mountain lion encounter: Stick to well-maintained trails, especially at night. Make noise while you hike so you don't startle one.
How to react to a mountain lion sighting: Stand tall, make eye contact, and slowly back away. Never run or crouch down.
How to tell the difference between a bobcat and a housecat: Bobcats are bigger and have a bobbed tail. Housecats (usually) have collars and a strong preference for chin scratches.
How to attract wildlife (safely): Set up a wildlife camera! It's a great way to see the cool critters that call Oklahoma home without getting too close.
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