Take A Look At This: Bobcat Hit and Killed in NE Harris County

HARRIS COUNTY, TX (KTRK) -- Folks in a number of areas around Houston are reporting sightings of bobcats.

A man tells us he struck a bobcat in northeast Harris County on West Lake Houston and Deussen Parkway early Saturday morning. He said he tried to avoid the bobcat, but it darted right in front of him as he was driving.

Where these homes are being built right now, there used to be only woods. As more neighborhoods are built, naturally, there are more opportunities to come face to face with the wildlife that once lived here.

Those living nearby are growing concerned.

"I'm just glad that I have not seen any bobcats near my home," said homeowner Laurie Duplechain.

Another bobcat was seen today on Katy ISD's Woodcreek Junior High, according to a note sent home to parents. The district says all students outside the classroom at the time were immediately called back inside.

The Fulshear Police Department posted a video last night of a large Bobcat caught on camera east of Bois D'Arc, north of Walker Lane.

Experts say the bobcats are nocturnal and generally not aggressive. They're commonly found in this part of southeast Texas. In fact, curators at the Houston Zoo, suggest the cats are helpful to us.

"Their main purpose is rodent control. Especially in this scenario, they serve a really good purpose in keeping our rodent population down," said zoo employee, Michelle Witek.

Wildlife experts say fences would be one tool you can use to try to keep such animals out of your yard. You can also avoid putting dog or cat food outside as that will only attract the bobcats.