EXCELLENT
1603 reviews
Flex Pest Control | Arkansas Pest Control

YOU CAN HAVE PESTS, OR FLEX PEST, BUT NOT BOTH

Call Us Today! (479) 404-0800
EXCELLENT
1603 reviews
Flex Pest Control | Arkansas Pest Control

Rare Visitors:
What to Do If You See a Bobcat or Ringtail Cat on Your Property

Not all wildlife encounters are expected or common. In Northwest Arkansas, bobcats and ring-tailed cats may not show up often, but when they do, they raise serious questions about safety, property security, and how to respond.

These rare species may seem elusive or even cute, but their presence near homes can cause damage, create tension with pets, and require professional handling. In this guide, Flex Pest Control breaks down what to know, what to watch for, and how we safely manage these unusual but impactful nuisance wildlife cases.

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Bobcats

Ring-Tailed
Cats

Bobcats:
Elusive Predators with a Suburban Curiosity

BEHAVIOR

Bobcats are solitary, stealthy hunters that typically roam wooded areas, but occasionally wander into rural neighborhoods, especially when food is scarce or urban development encroaches on their habitat. They're drawn to yards with small pets, unsecured garbage, or livestock.

RISKS

  • May hunt small pets or chickens left outdoors
  • Can carry parasites or zoonotic diseases
  • Sightings may cause panic or public safety concerns
  • May behave aggressively if cornered or with young nearby

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FLEX SOLUTION

We respond to bobcat sightings with extreme care, using: 

  • Live traps and humane hazing techniques
  • Property inspections to identify attractants
  • Reinforced fencing recommendations to protect pets and livestock
  • Removal of food sources, like unsecured pet food or compost piles

Our methods prioritize safe relocation and prevention, while helping homeowners regain peace of mind.

Fun Fact: Bobcats can leap over 10 feet in a single pounce and are often mistaken for large housecats, until they flash that distinctive short “bobbed” tail.

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Ring-Tailed Cats:
Cute Climbers with a Wild Side

BEHAVIOR

Not actually cats, ring-tailed cats (or “miner’s cats”) are small, nocturnal mammals related to raccoons. They love attics, barns, and outbuildings, especially in quiet rural areas. Agile and elusive, they forage at night for insects, fruits, and small critters.

RISKS

  • Droppings may carry parasites
  • Can nest in attics, leaving behind contamination
  • May chew wires or shred insulation
  • Cause minor but persistent damage in garages, sheds, or wall voids

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FLEX SOLUTION

While ringtails are rarely aggressive, they’re still a nuisance when nesting indoors. Our team uses:

  • Live traps and humane relocation
  • Durable sealing of small access points with hardware cloth or mesh
  • Habitat modification, such as removing food sources and nesting materials
  • Ongoing monitoring to prevent return visits

Fun Fact: Ring-tailed cats were once kept as pets by miners in the Ozarks to hunt mice. They’re excellent climbers, capable of scaling walls and squeezing into the tightest roof gaps.

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When to Call the Professionals

While bobcats and ringtails don’t appear on every pest control call, they do require professional wildlife expertise when they show up:

  • Both animals are protected under Arkansas wildlife laws, and improper handling can result in fines or safety risks
  • DIY trapping is not recommended due to their strength, agility, and potential to carry disease
  • Professional removal ensures humane treatment, legal compliance, and full exclusion

At Flex Pest Control, we approach rare cases with the same thoroughness and compassion as any wildlife job, starting with inspection and ending with lasting prevention.

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Educational Encounters: Awareness is Key

Spotting a bobcat or ring-tailed cat is a chance to learn about Arkansas’s wild side, but also a reminder to stay proactive. Here’s what homeowners can do:

  • Secure trash, compost, and outdoor pet food
  • Protect chickens and small animals with enclosed fencing
  • Seal access points in attics, sheds, and crawl spaces
  • Report sightings to wildlife professionals if the animal appears injured, sick, or repeatedly returns

These animals play a valuable role in the ecosystem, but not in your attic or under your porch.

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How Flex Responds to Specialty Wildlife Cases

Our Wildlife Division Supervisor, Jason Pitcock, brings field training and years of experience to every case, no matter how rare. We offer:

  • 24/7 response to unusual or emergency wildlife sightings
  • Inspection and trapping tailored to the species
  • Entry sealing, cleanup, and long-term deterrents
  • Clear communication and education for homeowners
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If It’s Wild, Rare, or Unfamiliar, Call Flex

You don’t have to figure it out alone. If a bobcat, ring-tailed cat, or any unexpected wildlife shows up, Flex Pest Control is your trusted partner for safe, legal, and humane removal in Northwest Arkansas.

Contact us today to schedule a wildlife inspection and let us handle the rare ones so you don’t have to.

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Flex Pest Control | Arkansas Pest Control

11928 Callis Rd.
Bentonville , AR 72712

[email protected]

(479) 404-0800

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