The American wild cat, also known as the bobcat, is a fierce and beautiful predator found throughout North America. There are several synonyms for this majestic animal, including bay lynx, red lynx, and wildcat. Each of these names describes the same species of feline, albeit with slight regional variations in appearance. Other synonyms for the American wild cat are the Rufus cat, Montana lynx, and Texas lynx. Regardless of what they are called, these creatures play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling populations of rodents and small mammals. The American wild cat is an iconic symbol of North America's wild beauty and diversity.