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Distinguishing Cougars, Bobcats, and Domestic Cats
Body shape and size of cougars, bobcats, and domestic cats
Cougar (Puma concolor)
Body:
5 - 6 feet long
Tail:
2 1/2 - 3 1/2 feet long
40% of body length from nose to tail tip)
Heavily furred
Adult Weight:
75 - 180 lbs
Coloration:
Plain yellowish to red-brown
Black coloring on end of tail and tips of ears, ears rounded
Young have spots
Bobcat (Lynx rufus)
Body:
3 1/2 feet long
Tail:
Approximately 6 inches
Adult Weight:
10 - 40 lbs
Coloration:
Similar to cougar
Black coloring on end of tail and tips of ears, ears pointed with small tufts of fur
Young have spots