Springfield, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced the closure of the 2023-2024 bobcat hunting season on February 15, with a total of 370 bobcats harvested by licensed hunters and trappers across the state. This marks a notable year for the regulated season, which aims to manage and sustain the bobcat population in Illinois.
According to the IDNR, the majority of the bobcats were taken by hunting (214, 55%), with trapping accounting for another 156 (40%), and 19 bobcats (5%) salvaged by permit holders under special circumstances, such as roadkill. The highest number of harvests was reported in Jo Daviess County. The IDNR issued 7,000 lottery applicants for the season, with 1,000 permits granted.
The IDNR emphasizes its commitment to the ongoing study and monitoring of bobcat populations to ensure that the hunting program continues to be conducted responsibly. With the collection of new data and research, the department aims to refine and adapt its management strategies to maintain the ecological balance and the health of bobcat populations throughout Illinois.
