Bobcat spotted in Ponce Inlet.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has confirmed two sightings of a bobcat from the early morning hours on Monday, October 24, 2022, near the south end of town by Elbers Sunset Park located at Beach Street & Front Street in the Town of Ponce Inlet. Officers with FWC will not respond unless it becomes hostile or a nuisance.

According to a release, Unless the animal is sick or injured, bobcats are generally elusive and not aggressive toward people. However, precautions should be taken to prevent problems:

• Secure all possible food sources, including pet food and garbage.
• Do not directly feed bobcats or other wildlife. Even if a bobcat is not eating the food, you put out for birds or other wildlife, feeding stations can concentrate prey species and draw predators to your property.
• Yell, use air horns or throw rocks towards but not at the bobcat to discourage the animal from being in an unwelcome place.
• Do not leave small domestic pets outdoors or on screened enclosures unattended and always walk dogs on leashes so they cannot run off or out of sight.

Euthanasia of any live captured bobcat is prohibited, they must be released per Florida Rule 68A-9.010, Taking Nuisance Wildlife.

For more information, visit FWC’s website on bobcats at https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/mammals/land/bobcat/