March 9, 2023 / Modified mar 10, 2023 12:48 p.m.

Bobcat Encounters in Southern Arizona: One Animal is Killed

Investigators are offering a reward of up to $500 in one case

Bobcat in Tucson Bobcats are relatively common mammals in Arizona and many other states.
Gage Judd / AZPM

The Arizona Game and Fish Department reports that a bobcat was found hanging from a tree on Tucson's east side, with an illegal leg hold trap.

It happened on Wednesday March 8th near Colossal Cave Road and Mary Ann Cleveland Way, where it or a similar bobcat had been seen alive days before the dead feline was discovered.

“In addition, hanging the bobcat from the tree was an ugly spectacle in public view that was especially cruel if the bobcat was still alive when placed there. We urge anyone who saw or heard something to contact us," said Raul Vega of the Arizona Game and Fish department in an agency news release.

The department says poachers are criminals, and it is offering up to $500 for information leading to an arrest in connection with this case.

"Those with information about the case are urged to contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Operation Game Thief Hotline at 800-352-0700 and reference OGT#23-000455 when calling, anonymously if need be," the release also states.

Arizona GF Agent bobcat Agents from the Arizona Game and Fish Department say a bobcat was found hanging from a tree on Tucson's east side on Wednesday March 8, 2023.
Arizona Game and Fish Dept.
Illegal trap used on bobcat Agents from the Arizona Game and Fish Department say an illegal trap was used on a bobcat, which was found hanging from a tree on Tucson's east side on Wednesday March 8, 2023.
Arizona Game and Fish Dept.

In an unrelated incident, San Manuel resident Nikola Zovko came home and discovered a bobcat lounging on a dog bed inside the house.

The cat is believed to have entered the home by using a doggie door, but officials believe it attacked one of Zovko's pets.

The dog, Squeakers, returned home the next day and required over $3,000 dollars worth of surgery and medical treatment, but it's expected to recover.

Experts say bobcats are relatively common in Arizona and other states, and usually try to avoid human contact although some have adapted to suburban living.

Dog attacked by bobcat Authorities believe a bobcat that entered a house in San Manuel, AZ attacked Squakers, one of the home's pets. Squeakers required more than $3,000 worth of medical care but is expected to recover.
Nikola Zovko

Bobcat enters San Manuel home San Manuel resident Nikola Zovko came home to find this bobcat lounging on one of his pet's doggie bed. The bobcat apparently used a doggie door to get into house but had left when investigators arrived. Zovko had been told to open doors leading outside.
Nikola Zovko

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