In New York, which wildcat is most common?

• A. Jaguar
• B. Bobcat
• C. Ocelot
• D. Canada lynx

Answer: (B)

In New York, the wildcat you’re most likely to encounter or rehabilitate from the wild is the bobcat. Bobcats are native and highly adaptable, thriving across a wide range of habitats—from forests and brushy edges to suburban and farmland areas—which makes them far more common throughout the state. Jaguars and ocelots are tropical or southern species and do not inhabit New York. Canada lynx can occur in northern, boreal-like areas but are rare and limited to specific regions, so they aren’t as widespread or numerous as bobcats. That broad distribution and higher population density is why the bobcat is the most common wildcat in New York.