Are bobcats dangerous? What to know about the cute, but wild, cats.

Bobcats may seem cute and fluffy, especially based on their size with males ranging between 18 to 35 pounds and females at around 30 pounds.

It’s important to remember, however, that these cats, no matter how adorable they may seem, are still wild animals. It is also crucial to remember when you encounter these animals, and really any animal in the wild, you are encroaching on their home.

If you are on a hiking trail and encounter a bobcat you may wonder, "Are these creatures dangerous?" We have the answers for you.

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Are bobcats dangerous?

Bobcats can be dangerous like most wild animals are. According to AZ Animals, although bobcats do not typically attack humans and do not usually initiate contact with people, they can be dangerous when they are startled or feel as if they are in danger.

Don’t be afraid, though. You are unlikely to be attacked by one of these small cats unprovoked. Bobcats are afraid of humans and will only become hostile on “rare occasions.”

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Where do bobcats live?

Bobcats are native to North America and can be found from Southern Mexico to Southern Canada.

According to the Smithsonian, a majority of bobcats are found all over the United States, from mixed forests and boreal coniferous in the north to coastal swamps and bottomland hardwood forests in the southeast, as well as deserts and scrublands in the southwest.

What to do if you see a bobcat

Although it is unlikely you will encounter a bobcat, here are steps to take just in case:

• Do not approach the bobcat.

• Do not turn your back on it. Instead, slowly back away from the bobcat.

• No matter how tempting it may be, do not run as this can provoke the bobcat.

• Throw any water you have at the bobcat. Like other cats, they do not like water.

• Call animal control if you see a bobcat in a developed area.

• Bang anything you have together or make as much noise as possible.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bobcats may be cute, but are they dangerous? What to know.