Squamish photographer Tim Cyr recently captured this stunning footage of a bobcat in the Squamish Estuary, and it quickly made the rounds on local social media.
Vanessa Isnardy, provincial WildSafeBC co-ordinator told The Chief her organization is developing more awareness of the ethical photography of wildlife.
Cyr has quality camera gear that allows him to zoom in and keep a distance, which is good, she said.(For more of Cyr’s videos, go here.)
The bobcat seems unaware of his presence, which is another positive sign, she said.
Isnardy discourages locals from getting footage of such animals with mobile phones as it requires getting too close to animals.
Go here for more ethical photography tips.
Isnardy said it is important that those out on Squamish's trails know their surroundings, should wildlife be in the area. Do not wear headphones or earbuds while in nature, she advised.
If you see a bobcat, stay calm and do not run.
Most bobcat conflicts involve pets and small livestock.
Thus, it is always vital to keep pets on a leash in case wildlife is in the area.
Bobcats are one of three wild cats in B.C., Isnardy noted.
Bobcats and lynx are notoriously hard to tell apart where their territories overlap.
Here's a short video highlighting the differences.
"Lynx are not typically found on the coast and are the more predominant species in the northern half of the province. Bobcats are common in the southern half. Neither species are found on Vancouver Island. Squamish is ideal bobcat habitat," Isnardy said.They typically breed over the winter and into the spring. Kittens — usually two but one to six can be born — arrive between April and May.
They will stay with their mother for nine to 12 months. Bobcats are typically most active at dawn and dusk but can become more active during the day over the winter.
"Bobcats are solitary except when mating or raising young. They can be territorial at times, but more often, they allow some range-overlap," she said.
Bobcats hunt small mammals but have also been seen fishing and can take down small deer.
There are few conflicts with bobcats in town, but Isnardy notes it is best to always check your yard before letting pets out.
For those who live in more rural areas, small livestock should be protected with fencing.
