Bobcat kitten taken from woods near Eagle Point now at Oregon Zoo

Portland, Ore. – A bobcat kitten that was taken out of the woods near Eagle Point is now being cared for by wildlife specialists at the Oregon Zoo.

The Oregon Zoo said the kitten, estimated to be about 2 months old, was taken by people who thought they were rescuing it. Wildlife officials determined the bobcat would not be able to survive on his own if released back into the wild.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Communications Coordinator Michelle Dennehy said, “If you see a young animal alone, please leave it where it is. Its mother is likely to be nearby, even if she can’t be seen. Most animals leave their young to forage or hunt. Bobcat kittens, when taken from the wild and fed by people for more than a few short days, become habituated to humans and most likely can never survive in the wild without causing problems with people, pets or livestock. ”

The bobcat will be staying behind-the-scenes at the Oregon Zoo until a transfer to another accredited zoo can be arranged.