Full Notification

On 02/11 at 1720 hours, officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Vista Road on the report of a bobcat sighting. The bobcat was seen for a brief time as it traveled from the backyard of a residence on Vista Road towards Club View Dr. This is the second sighting of a bobcat in the last 48 hours. The first sighting was in the 1200 block of Contra Costa Drive during the evening hours on 02/10.

(From the Arizona Fish and Game Dept.)
What Attracts Them?

Bobcats may visit an area to find food, water, shelter, or the space they need to live. Food may include birds, rodents, rabbits, small unattended pets, poultry or other domestic birds, and other small livestock. Water in pools, birdbaths, fountains, and pets' water dishes can attract bobcats. They will sometimes defecate in shallow water (such as pools and fountains). Shelter for bobcats can include rooftops, attics, and the space underneath decks. Other small spaces can make attractive dens also, and bobcats will sometimes rest during the day or bask in the sun. This makes them attracted to thick brush, shade, and unoccupied yards.

What to do if you encounter a bobcat?

Scare off with loud noises or spray with a garden hose.
If the animal is confined, open a gate, have all people leave the area, and allow it to leave on its own. Contact the El Cerrito Police Department: 911 or 510-233-1214
Check for kittens in the area, and if kittens are there, then consider tolerating them for a few weeks until the kittens are large enough to leave the area with their mother.