Bobcat Pelt Quality and Temporal Distribution of Harvest in Texas

We surveyed licensed bobcat (Felis rufus) pelt dealers to detennine relative abundance of high-quality pelts during the commercial harvest season (15 Nov 1982 to 15 Feb 1988) in Texas. Respondents indicates most high-quality pelts were obtained during January and February. Abundance of high-quality pelts was low from 15 to 30 November, but few bobcats were harvested during this time. Current season dates seem reasonable if managers wish to maximize recreational opportunities rather than pelt quality.