Why Bobcat Sightings Are Increasing Across Massachusetts

Bobcats are common throughout the six-state New England region, and while their population is growing, the big cats pose little threat to humans unless you mess with them.

Where Bobcats Are Most Common in Massachusetts

Massachusetts bobcats are most often found in central and western Massachusetts, but they are also right at home in the east. In March 2025, there were bobcat sightings in Westwood and Norwood.

The Norwood sighting was near an elementary school.

READ MORE: Bobcat Spotted Near Eastern Massachusetts Playground

Why Mating Season Increases Bobcat Sightings in Massachusetts

For bobcats, February and March are mating season, drawing some into suburban areas in search of a mate. That increases your chances of spotting a bobcat, perhaps even in your backyard.

In 2013, a Brookfield man and his nephew were attacked by what was likely a rabid bobcat. In 2016, a bobcat was struck and killed in Dartmouth on Interstate 195.

Bobcats do not bother humans unless they feel threatened, so it's not a good idea to try to approach one for a selfie experience. They will, however, attack small, unattended pets in the yard. Chickens and ducks should be enclosed in a secure pen to protect them from predators.

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Do Massachusetts Bobcats Pose a Danger to Humans?

MassAudubon says, "Bobcats are shy animals with an innate fear of humans and will not attack a person unless provoked, cornered, or habituated in some way, but attacks are extremely rare."

READ MORE: Bobcats in Massachusetts: Rare, But Real

Mass.gov says, "Bobcats can be active day or night but tend to exhibit crepuscular (dawn and dusk) activity. Their activity peaks three hours before sunset until midnight and again between one hour before and four hours after sunrise."

Bobcats remain active year-round and do not hibernate.