Bobcat Prowling
What’s inside...
In this companion to Coyote Moon and Hawk Rising, a young bobcat searches a suburban landscape for a territory to call his own. As day breaks and yowls disrupt the morning air, the bobcat leaves tracks in the snow searching for a home range. He navigates between wilderness and suburbia, hunting prey such as hare, squirrel, and pheasant while evading the resident predator. Throughout his journey, he waits and watches for the perfect opportunity to establish his own territory.
Discussion points
What do you think the bobcat does during the day and why?
How do you feel about the bobcat’s relationship with its environment?
What can we learn from the bobcat’s behavior?
Why do you think the bobcat moves so quietly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the life of a bobcat by asking them to imagine spending a day as one.
Discuss the importance of the bobcat’s habitat and how it helps them survive.
Use the bobcat's stealth and adaptability traits to talk about problem solving and adapting to new situations.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the bobcat's approach to challenges and how they might handle similar situations in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In 'Bobcat Prowling', the bobcat character faces numerous challenges in its environment, demonstrating tenacity and determination to survive and thrive.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing challenges head-on and not giving up easily is crucial in achieving goals, whether in school tasks or personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story highlights the natural habitat of the bobcat and the delicate balance of the ecosystem, teaching children about the importance of respecting and protecting wildlife.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be conscious of their environment, promoting actions like recycling, preserving water, and not disturbing wildlife.
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity in animal behavior
Explanation: Through the protagonist's encounters with other creatures, children learn about the diverse behaviors and traits of different animals.
Real-World Application: This understanding fosters empathy and appreciation for biodiversity, which can lead to more informed and respectful interactions with animals they encounter.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity
Explanation: The young bobcat’s explorations serve as a metaphor for the learning process, showing that curiosity leads to discovery and growth.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore new subjects, broadening their knowledge and fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonds
Explanation: The bobcat is often depicted with its family, emphasizing the support and safety the family unit provides.
Real-World Application: This highlights to children the significance of family in providing support and love, stressing the importance of maintaining strong family connections.