There’s some really exciting news from the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Its Perkins Wildlife Center, which is home to many rescued wild animals, has now acquired a young male northern bobcat named Diego. He arrived in March courtesy of a private donor, and will soon be introduced to CMNH’s senior bobcats, Bob and Bitty, who have been at the museum since 2002 when they were babies. He’s currently 11 pounds, but expected to eventually be 15-30 pounds.
“We are taking the process slowly and steadily and following Diego’s cues,” says CMN Director of Wildlife Jim Nemet. “Diego is a smart and adaptable youngster with a keen curiosity. Our guests will surely enjoy watching his playfulness as he continues to develop and learn in his new surroundings.”
The museum hopes that eventually all three bobcats will share the same space, but how quickly that happens will depend on their response to each other. After all, they’re cats!
“Bobcats are native to Ohio and one of seven wild cat species found in North America,” the museum tells us. “Bobcat sightings in Ohio increased dramatically beginning in the 2000s, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources/Division of Wildlife. While bobcats are rebounding in Ohio, it is very unlikely to see one in the wild. They are elusive and crepuscular animals, meaning they prefer to be active at dusk and dawn.” So being able to see them at CMNH is a special treat.
Visiting the Perkins Wildlife Center is included with admission. Go here for more information about Diego.