A bobcat has been spotted roaming around De Soto, Kansas, with residents taking photos of the normally elusive animal. However, Johnson County Animal Control believes someone may be feeding it, which could lead to the bobcat becoming too comfortable around humans.

Concerns About Feeding Wild Animals

According to Animal Control Officer Larry Shoop, feeding wild animals can make them dependent on humans for food, leading to potential dangers for small pets and livestock. Shoop described the bobcat as healthy, likely due to it eating well, but warned that feeding it could have negative consequences.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is asking residents to give the bobcat space and not approach, follow, or feed it. Wild animals may pass through neighborhoods, but they do not need food or help, and it is best to leave them alone and allow them to move on.

Bobcats are predators that live throughout Kansas, including Johnson County, but are rarely seen due to their elusive nature. As rural areas continue to develop, sightings may become more common. Shoop emphasized that it is essential to respect wild animals and not feed them, as this can lead to problems for both humans and animals.

Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.