Sighting a bobcat encounter in Plano – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

Urban bobcat sightings can be common in parts of North Texas, particularly Collin County.

They are generally not a cause for concern.

Leighann Ricks, of Frisco, says a bobcat and her four kittens have become daily visitors to her yard. She has the photos, the paw prints and the path under her shed to prove it.

“She’s very protective,” Ricks said.

But so is Ricks of Buster, his 8-year-old poodle chihuahua mix.

“If he’s here, we’re here with him,” Ricks said.

Bobcats feed primarily on rabbits, squirrels and rodents, but can also prey on small pets.

Thrilling video recorded in a Plano backyard shows a bobcat sneaking up behind Boots, a 10-year-old Yorkshire Terrier and best friend of 9-year-old Ben.

“The boots mean a lot. More than anything,” Ben said.

Ben’s mother Jennifer left Boots outside while she made coffee early Tuesday morning when, out of the corner of her eye, she said she was the bobcat.

“I was like, ‘Oh my God, it’s a big bobcat,’ and I couldn’t see my eyes,” Jennifer said. “I just went into protective mom mode.”

In the video, the bobcat surprises Boots and then gives the dog a few punches.

“It was scary,” Jennifer said. “It was like being in National Geographic,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer starts screaming and banging the door, the bobcat rushes in and so does Boots, but moments later he runs back inside.

Karin Saucedo is a wildlife conservation photographer who says new developments are leading to a decrease in bobcat habitat.

“Coexistence is crucial,” Saucedo said. “They’re not going anywhere. Even if we get rid of them, there will be another one taking their place, so trapping and eliminating them is not an option.

Saucedo says small animals should always be kept outside.

“Be careful,” Ben said.

He and his mother Jennifer say they don’t leave Boots outside anymore.

Jennifer says this is the first time their family has encountered a bobcat in the 16 years they have lived in their home.