A lady in Calgary, Alberta, got an unexpected and heartwarming surprise when a mama Bobcat and her three adorable kittens wandered right up to her doorstep. The furry family of four was seen strolling through the neighborhood one sunny August afternoon in 2015, catching the attention of residents who could hardly believe their eyes. Encounters like this are extremely rare, making the moment unforgettable for everyone nearby.
It was Katherine Reiffenstein who first spotted the Bobcat family near her home. “I saw the mother and one kitten, and all of a sudden kittens just started popping up,” she told CBC in amazement. Katherine quickly grabbed her camera and managed to take a few incredible photos before the wild visitors calmly crossed the street and disappeared into the bushes. “I have never seen a wildcat before… I was quite lucky to see them,” she added.
Photo: Katherine Reiffenstein
Alberta Fish and Wildlife officials later confirmed that the mama Bobcat and her kittens were likely exploring the area in search of food and water, a common behavior during dry summer months. Officials assured residents there was no reason to be alarmed, as Bobcats are generally shy and avoid human contact. While such sightings are unusual, experts encourage people to admire these animals from a distance and allow them to move on naturally.
Photo: Katherine Reiffenstein
Bobcats rarely venture into suburban neighborhoods, but occasional appearances do happen near forested or rural edges. Wildlife authorities emphasize that residents should never try to approach or feed wildcats, as this can disrupt their natural instincts. Instead, people are encouraged to keep pets indoors, secure garbage bins, and report unusual wildlife behavior to local officials if necessary.
Photo: Katherine Reiffenstein
This wasn’t the first time a Bobcat made an unexpected appearance in Calgary. In a separate incident, another family discovered a tiny Bobcat kitten near their guest house. The homeowners believed the mother was nearby, and they carefully observed from a distance until the young wildcat wandered off safely. These encounters serve as gentle reminders that even in urban areas, nature finds its way to surprise us.
Photo: falloutmike
To learn more about how to live safely alongside wildlife and help protect these majestic animals, you can visit
Wildcat Conservation. The organization provides valuable information on Bobcat behavior, conservation efforts, and what to do if you encounter one in your area.
