This Wildlife webpage had it's beginnings in January of 2008 when Louise Walls sent the photo above.  She was standing on their deck on Crestline and zoomed in to shoot the guy.  Louise asked the Mountain News broadcast:

After many responses later, "Bobcat" won by about 10 to 1.  One of the messages came back from Catherine Reid who also sent these other three photos:

"That is definitely a bobcat. we have one that frequents our house. He too is unafraid. Has stolen chickens from me while I was standing 6 feet away, tossing them cheese. We do photo shoots on a regular basis. I have great video of him too. Here are some photos for you to compare."  - Catherine, East Grade Road

The same day, I'd seen a Bobcat out in the Mendenhall Valley but he was too quick for my camera.  Then, Heather's message came in: 

"Yes, this is a Bobcat!  Beware, they are very quick and will chase you if they feel there is a threat!  They eat small animals such as cats, small dogs, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, etc.  They have been known to bring down deer at times.  Best thing to do is go back in the house until he moves on.  Bobcats are born with short tails, as in the pictures. Lynx's also have short tails but they are about 2 to 3 inches longer than a bobcat, and they are about 10 to 20 pounds heavier. 

I have been working with all types of animals for 17 years now.  Other animals I have seen and remember on Palomar are the following: Black Bear, Cougar or Mountain Lion, Bobcats, Mule Deer, Coyote, Raccoons, Chipmunks, Squirrels, and there are about 10 birds that can not be seen anywhere else except the mountain.   As beautiful as wildlife is I never want to see anyone get hurt!"  Heather, PMVFD / CERT

When I read Heather's message I appreciated her important reminder and thought it was worth saving.  I also thought that the question was answered and decided to preserve these photos and create this 'Wildlife' page for the community of Palomar.  Then, another e-mail came in from Louise:

It was suggested that I go to a library to look up pictures of bobcats. Since we have snow up here and I would have to hike more than 1/2 mile to my car up on the road then drive about an hour to a library, I looked up bobcats on the internet and found this Bobcat Website with great photos. Since many look like my "kitty" and many don't, I'm still not sure it's conclusive. Louise