Bobcats generally do not pose a threat to humans unless provoked or rabid. Most sightings likely involve a single bobcat searching for food such as small pets, rodents, chickens, birds and other small wildlife. The neighborhood may be within the bobcat's territory or part of a travel route. Remove attractants like water sources from pools, fountains or birdbaths and reduce shelter by trimming overgrown shrubs. Bird feeders can indirectly attract bobcats by drawing birds and rodents. Never leave pets or small children unattended outdoors. Use loud noises or toss objects like tennis balls to scare a bobcat away.
Although it can be disconcerting to see a wild animal casually strolling through your neighborhood, bobcats don't usually pose a threat to humans. Known attacks on people have all been because the bobcat was threatened and protecting itself, or the cat had rabies, which now that I say it doesn't sound as reassuring as I hoped.
Even though you don't have pets, you and your neighbors should take a look at what you might accidentally be offering the bobcat, such as water from pools, fountains or birdbaths. Overgrown shrubs might be providing shelter. Bird feeders also might interest a bobcat, not because it likes birdseed, but because it likes the birds and rodents that like the birdseed.
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