Watch This Bobcat Attack a Groundhog Thinking It's Easy Lunch Only To Be Sent Away With Tail Between Legs

There’s nothing like a stroll through the park in Massachusetts during any time of year. However, one might run across the state’s diverse wildlife while doing so! In the clip below, we see a bobcat approaching a groundhog, two typical critters seen throughout the nearby wilds. The would-be predator paws at the little rodent, clearly trying to antagonize him. The groundhog simply won’t stand for that kind of treatment, though, and starts fighting back! After exchanging a few blows, the animals have a standoff, sizing up what the best next move might be. Then, the cat reenters the fray, despite his opponent’s intimidating posture. They get close and, surprisingly, stare each other down. Suddenly, the groundhog goes on the offensive and scares the bobcat away! Scroll on to see this unexpected outcome firsthand!

See What Happens When You Mess With Groundhogs

Are Groundhogs Dangerous?

As the amusing mascot of traditional holidays and golf movies alike, it’d be hard to see the groundhog as a threat. Truly, although the one in the above footage stood his ground and chased off a predator, these animals are normally rather timid. Since they are small rodents, they typically shy away from possible dangers to themselves, including humans. They are wild animals, though, and as such are best left undisturbed.

Although not a direct hazard themselves, it’s important to note that these critters are the bane of farmers. As burrowing creatures, groundhogs love to dig and can easily destroy any vegetation they happen upon. If that wasn’t enough, these energetic animals primarily eat plant-based foods. Together, their habits can easily ruin yards and gardens all while snatching up any tasty produce that might be growing. That said, if you live anywhere near groundhog territory, catching up on the local guidelines regarding them wouldn’t hurt!

What Do Bobcats Symbolize?

As an abundant native species to North America, the bobcat has found itself woven into Native American lore for generations. While some tribes like the Hopi see them as a negative sign, others including the Mohave regard them as a hunter’s blessing. Additional interpretations from the Pawnee people claim the bobcat links the opposing realms of the Earth and night sky.

Although not as common as an emblem as the coyote, the bobcat still appears prominently throughout native mythology. In fact, recent research surprisingly reveals that some Native Americans may have tried domesticating this wily animal. While not a widely investigated cultural phenomenon, the evidence suggests tremendous respect for the bobcat!