The Bobcat, or Wildcat as it is also called, was given the name lynx rufus by scientists. It was named bobcat for the cat's short, bobbed tail. This distant, wild cousin of our domestic cat, weighs in at 15-25 pounds and stands 20-23 inches high at the shoulder. Aside from its bobbed tail, the wildcat can also be recognized by it's beautiful spotted coat, the ruff surrounding its handsome face, and the black tufts of hair on the tips of the ears. The wildcat is an elusive predator and prefers to hunt mostly at night. The cat may cover 5-6 miles in search of food in a single evening. They hunt quietly, inspecting every nook and cranny for possible prey. This secretive creature goes about its business in such a stealthy manner that few people are aware of it's presence, even though it often lives close to civilization. The wildcat's fighting ability is legendary. To say that a man could " lick his weight in wildcats " is still a valid compliment. The wildcat's tenacity has been honored by schools and universities that have adopted the animal as their mascot.