Bobcat & Frog At Pleasanton Ridge: Photos Of The Day

PLEASANTON, CA — Janice Carmo certainly had an eventful hike at Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park the other day. While on the Thermalito Trail, she spotted a bobcat. It spotted her back.

The cat then ran in front of her, crossed the path, and ran up to the other side.

She then spotted a frog away from the water, where they normally hang out.

There are anywhere between 70,000 and 100,000 bobcats in California, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Back in March, Tvisha Joshi spotted another one while hiking at the same park.

In the East Bay Regional Park District, they are a protected species, and it is not uncommon to spot one at the more remote parks, including Sunol Regional Wilderness, Del Valle Regional Park, and Brushy Peak Regional Preserve.

If you spot a bobcat, the East Bay Regional Park District Police Department advises not to approach, feed or try to touch them. They may run away, though some have become used to humans, and may just watch. People are advised to give the bobcat plenty of space, and back away slowly.

Thanks for sharing, Janice! If you have photos of any interesting local critters, humans included, email michael.wittner@patch.com.