Bobcats Do Not Exhibit Rub Response Despite Presence at Hair Collection Stations

We evaluated the detection rate for hair snare sampling for bobcats (Lynx rufus) using colocated hair snares and infrared-triggered cameras at 20 locations on private property in eastern Texas. Hair snares and cameras were placed together at survey stations that included both visual and olfactory attractants. In 1,680 trap-nights we photographically documented 15 visits by bobcats but collected only one bobcat hair sample. Our observations suggested limited rubbing behavior by bobcats at hair snares despite presence at hair collection stations. The explanation for this behavior remains unclear but is consistent with observations of low and variable hair trap success for this species. Although presence of other carnivores, especially gray fox, may inhibit rub response of felids, we did not document gray foxes at our hair collection stations. Low rub frequency may limit the utility of these techniques for bobcats and we suggest that alternate techniques such as camera surveys or fecal DNA collection may be more suitable