Tennessee wildlife
Eastern bobcat
Lynx rufus
Solitary wild cat with short tail, tufted ears, and spotted coat.
See the Eastern bobcat up close
Best months
Sep · Oct · Nov
Best seen at dawn or dusk in remote areas; check park ranger advice for recent sightings.
Where to look
Appalachian boulder field at blue hourGreat Smoky Mountains National ParkCherokee National Forest
Conservation status
Common but elusive; populations stable
Good to know
Where is the best place to see bobcats in Tennessee?
Remote areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, especially boulder fields at dawn.
What time of day are bobcats most active?
Bobcats are most active during crepuscular hours, around sunrise and sunset.
Make it a trip
Rent an RV or boat in Tennessee
The rigs here are owned by local hosts. Browse what fits your route, or reach Tennessee owners directly.
Browse Tennessee rigs
