Bobcat Kitten Rescued in Highland County, Now Receiving Care at Wildlife Center of Virginia
WAYNESBORO, VIRGINIA — The Wildlife Center of Virginia has taken in a rare and unusual patient this fall: a young bobcat kitten rescued from the roadside in Highland County.
Kitten Found Alone and Injured
According to Alex Olvera, a rehabilitation supervisor at the center, the kitten was discovered in September with an injury to her tail and signs suggesting she had been orphaned or abandoned.
“Probably she was by herself for a little over 24 hours; she wasn’t too skinny but enough to have missed a couple of meals,” Olvera said. The exam revealed a small tail fracture that required treatment.
Distinct Traits of a Bobcat
Olvera explained that bobcats can be distinguished by their dark ear markings, pointed ears, and unique fur patterns. Because they are predators, the center is carefully crafting an environment where the kitten can develop her natural hunting and survival instincts.
Specialized Care and Monitoring
Staff are providing the kitten with formula and food served in bowls while monitoring her closely on cameras to minimize human contact.
Plans are underway to build a specialized cat tree designed to mimic a natural environment, with multiple platforms to help the kitten climb, hide, and practice behaviors necessary for survival in the wild.
Looking Toward Release
So far, the bobcat is responding well to care. The goal is to keep her in rehabilitation until she is strong enough to return to the wild, ideally by spring of 2026.
“We’ll provide the best care we can to hopefully have her released by next spring,” Olvera said.
Do you think wildlife centers should expand rescue programs for predators like bobcats, or should rehabilitation resources focus more on smaller species? Share your thoughts and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
