Bobcats Exhibit Low Detection Rates at Hair Collection Stations in East Texas

Abstract

We evaluated the detection rate for hair snare sampling for bobcats (Lynx rufus) using collocated hair snares and infrared-triggered cameras at 20 locations on private property in eastern Texas. Hair snare and camera stations were located together and included both visual and olfactory attractants. In 1,680 trap-nights we photographically documented 15 visits by bobcats but collected only one bobcat hair sample. Our observations suggested limited rubbing behavior by bobcats at hair snares and did not support any influence by sympatric carnivores (e.g., gray fox, Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Low rub frequency may limit the utility of these techniques for bobcats and we suggest that alternate techniques such as camera surveys or fecal DNA collection may be more suitable.