Watch these bobcat kittens ‘play a-round’ on backyard Calgary putting green
There’s a lot of paw-tential for puns here!
A southeast Calgary resident wants to remind local bobcats that it’s a maximum of four to a group on the golf course after capturing a mother and her five kittens playing ‘a-round’ on his backyard putting green.
The adorable video was captured the afternoon of July 28 in Calgary’s Cranston neighbourhood. It shows one of the kittens sliding down a fence like James ‘Claw-nd’, eager to join its siblings in Colin Barclay’s backyard.
The group of bobcats, known as a “clutter”, “clowder” or “pounce”, is seen resting on the roof of a shed. (Colin Barclay)
The kittens can be seen exploring the course, playfighting, and becoming ‘green’ with envy as their mates feed and nurse. Mom, on the other hand, looks as tired as if she just played 36 holes!
But as cute as the kittens may be, it’s important to remember that bobcats can pose a threat to small humans and animals.
Trail camera data from the Miistakis Institute confirms that bobcats are active in green spaces across Calgary. And while they prey mostly on small game like mice and squirrels, they have been known to hunt dogs and cats in Calgary.
Where the most frequent bobcat sightings have been reported. (Graphic created by The Weather Network via Canva)
Experts suggest that as the city expands, bobcats will likely become more accustomed to human presence. However, they also advise that a few simple actions can help deter these cute but wild creatures from entering your home.
Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society Executive Director Beki Hunt says cleaning up food sources is a great place to start. That includes removing any fallen fruits from trees, securing (or removing) bird feeders as they’re known to bring in bobcats, and removing any other food you may be leaving out for pets or cats.
Additionally, be sure to thoroughly clean garbage, green, and recycling bins.
You can also trim or clear shrubbery and block off any sheltered areas so bobcats don’t find your home a good place to create a den.
If you live in an area prone to bobcat activity, installing an enclosed space with a roof so your pets can safely enjoy the outdoors isn’t a bad idea, either.
Header image: A southeast Calgary resident captured this adorable video of a clutter of bobcats playing and relaxing on a backyard putting green. Experts caution, though, that bobcats can be dangerous and steps need to be taken to safely coexist with the wild animals (Colin Barclay)