What is a challenge of releasing young bobcats in late December in New York State?

• A. It is a difficult time of year to find prey and chances of survival are greatly reduced
• B. Prey is abundant in December
• C. It is too cold to release, so wait until spring
• D. There is no issue releasing in late December

Answer: (A)

Releasing a juvenile bobcat in late December confronts the animal with winter-level challenges that directly affect its chances of survival. In New York’s winter, prey becomes scarce and harder to catch, while the colder temperatures raise energy needs and make food searches more arduous. Snow and ice can hinder movement and hunting success, and a young bobcat hasn’t yet fully learned to hunt on its own, so the risk of starvation and exposure is higher after release. Because of these conditions, survival prospects are greatly reduced compared with other times of the year.