Reports from other parts of the state were common enough to suggest that bobcats existed at low densities along the Mississippi, Illinois, and Kaskaskia rivers. Based on this study, bobcats were removed from the list of state threatened species in 1998. Habitat Bobcats prefer large forested or wooded areas . Forest lands with immature trees, thick underbrush, occasional clearings, cliffs, and timbered swamps are generally best. Common den sites include fallen trees, hollow logs or trees, thickets, caves, and rock piles.
Some bobcats make their dens in abandoned or little-used barns and buildings.
Habits Bobcats are most active at night and during the twilight hours of dusk and dawn. Daytime movements are rare except during the breeding season and occasionally during winter when food is scarce. They remain active all year long. While capable of swimming, they tend to avoid water. Bobcats are excellent climbers and use trees for resting, observation, and to escape enemies.