Residents of a quiet court near Los Alamitos Creek have recently reported unusual visitors: bobcats. The sightings have left many homeowners both fascinated and concerned about why these wild cats are showing up in residential spaces.

One resident described a close encounter that happened right outside their home. “We recently saw a bobcat walking across our backyard deck, right past the sliding screen door,” they said. “Then, two days ago, we saw it again—this time in the front of the house, walking past to the neighbors’ properties.”

The homeowner confirmed that no one in their section of the court owns pets. However, they later discovered scat, believed to be from the bobcat, near an area filled with decorative stones next to the house.

Story Highlights

• Location: Bobcat sightings reported near Los Alamitos Creek.

• Frequency: Same bobcat likely seen multiple times in one neighborhood.

• Reason: Searching for food such as rodents, birds, or small pets.

• Scat Found: Residents spotted bobcat scat near their property.

• Prevention Tips: Remove water sources, bird feeders, and dense shrubs.

• Deterrent Methods: Use ammonia sprays or commercial wildlife repellents.

• Safety Alert: Keep pets and small children indoors and supervised.

Are Bobcats Hunting in Neighborhoods?

According to wildlife experts, the bobcat was most likely in search of food. These predators primarily hunt small animals such as rodents, rabbits, birds, and occasionally small domestic pets. While the family that reported the sightings has no pets, the presence of bird feeders or water sources in the area could still attract a bobcat.

“Bobcats are opportunistic hunters,” explained an expert. “They aren’t interested in birdseed, but they do notice the birds and rodents that feeders attract. Water sources like fountains or birdbaths, especially in dry conditions, are another major draw.”

Overgrown shrubs and dense vegetation also provide natural cover, creating safe passage for bobcats moving through neighborhoods.

Scat Discovery and How to Respond

Finding bobcat scat near your home is a clear sign the animal has passed through your property. So, what should homeowners do after cleaning it up?

“After removing the scat, spray the area with ammonia or use a wildlife deterrent,” said the expert. “Another effective method is soaking rags in ammonia and scattering them in the area. This strong scent will discourage the bobcat from returning.”

While these steps help, experts warn that bobcats may still revisit the area if food or shelter remains available.

Safety Measures for Families and Pets

Although bobcats rarely attack humans, it’s important to remain cautious. Known attacks on people usually involve rabid animals or those acting in self-defense.

“If a bobcat wanders into an area where you don’t want it, make loud noises or toss non-harmful objects, like a tennis ball, to scare it away,” advised wildlife specialists.

Residents who own pets or have small children should never leave them outdoors unsupervised. Keeping yards clear of attractants is the most effective prevention strategy.

An Unexpected Observation About Doves

While discussing backyard wildlife, one resident shared an interesting observation about doves. “I’ve had a large birdbath outside my window for over 50 years,” they said. “I noticed that doves do two things other birds don’t: they kiss, and they drink water like a horse instead of the dip-and-pour method.”

Experts confirm that members of the Columbidae family, which includes pigeons and doves, drink water by sucking it up like a straw—something no other bird species can do. As for “kissing,” other birds such as parrots and bald eagles also engage in beak-to-beak interactions, often as a sign of bonding or to exchange food.

Bottom Line

Bobcats near Los Alamitos Creek are likely just passing through or searching for food. By removing attractants and using deterrents like ammonia sprays, residents can reduce the chances of another visit. While these sightings may seem alarming, experts emphasize that bobcats are generally not a danger unless provoked.

Bobcat sightings near Los Alamitos Creek are a reminder that wildlife and urban neighborhoods often intersect. While these encounters can feel unsettling, experts stress that bobcats rarely pose a threat to humans if left alone. Most visits are driven by food and water availability.

By removing attractants like bird feeders, standing water, and dense shrubs—and using deterrents such as ammonia sprays—residents can reduce the likelihood of repeat visits. Staying alert, supervising pets and children, and knowing how to safely scare a bobcat away are the best ways to coexist peacefully with these wild neighbors.

Would you like me to add a short, punchy summary line at the end (perfect for SEO and social shares), like “Coexist, but stay cautious—bobcats are just passing through”? Or should I give three different versions of a conclusion for variety?

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