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Bobcat Calling Tips

Although there are no guarantees when dealing with wildlife, there are certain ways to increase your chances when calling in a bobcat. By keeping noise and movement to a minimum, curious bobcats will come in cautiously thinking there is an animal nearby for him to feast on. Whether you use electronic devices or other objects, calling in a bobcat and having one appear is a thrill for wildlife lovers.

Electric Animals
- The motion of an electronic woodpecker makes just enough sound to fool a bobcat.
  
  According to All Predator Calls, a company specializing in predator decoys, a fake woodpecker placed up off the ground can be seen by a bobcat up to 100 yards away. The combination of the movement and the woodpecker distress sounds brings the bobcat closer. Or, in conjunction with a predator call, try an electric rabbit. The realistic body and internal vibration system give off a quiver motion that calls in bobcats and other animals.
Objects and Electonic Calls
- A swaying feather decoy holds a bobcat's attention and distracts from the person using it. However, if a bobcat does see a person, his curiosity will likely keep him hanging around long enough for a clear sighting. Or, try a digital game calling system which gives off multiple, simultaneous sounds heard up to 200 yards away. The wireless remote control allows the hunter to hide while controlling the device.
Mouth Calls
- Mouth calls sound as though a jackrabbit, for example, is trapped or injured. A bobcat will respond greatly to sounds that emulate despair or pain from another animal. One advantage of the mouth caller is that is it compact enough to carry in a shirt or pant pocket. Also, the tone and volume are easily changed. Consider a coyote howler, for example, which produces all the sounds of a coyote in distress, with yelps, barks and whines.
Videos, Books and Clothes
- Read what experts say about bobcat calling before trying it yourself.
  
  Calling a bobcat takes patience and time. There are books and videos available to help educate people on this wildlife skill. Check out the DVD, "So You Want to Be a Predator Caller," which gives plenty of tips on how to hand call, use scouting techniques and more. Also, consider reading "Predator Hunting: A Complete Guide to Hunting Coyotes, Foxes, Bobcats, Bears and More," to figure out how to track bobcats, what gear to wear and why having the right mental attitude is important. In addition, keep bobcat calling equipment together in a camouflaged vest. Not only will your devices be organized and close, but the bobcats will have a harder time spotting you.
General Tips and Weather
- Let animal tracks guide you.
  
  Always research the correct spot to call in a bobcat. Discover animal tracks and droppings near game trails, water holes and in soft dirt along the roads. When exiting the car, be quiet. Refrain from slamming car doors and park down below. According to Pocket Call Company, walk about 100 yards or more into the wind and take cover with trees. The best times to call a bobcat during hot weather is in the early morning and late afternoon. When the weather is cool, any time of day is good.

Nature