An annual scent station survey was conducted in Louisiana from 1978 through 1982 to determine relative abundance of bobcats (Felis rufus) and relate indices to geographical regions and habitat types. A total of 29 lines each with 50 stations per line was proportionally divided into 5 regions. The use of fatty acid scent resulted in an average visitation rate of 4.6% for bobcats, 9.7% for coyotes (Canis latrans), 7.3% for fox (Vulpes vulpes and Urocyon cinereoargenteus), 7.2% for raccoon (Procyon lotor), 11:8% for opossum (Didelphis virginiana) and 7.1% for skunk (Mephitis mephitis). Significant differences were detected among years, regions and habitats for bobcat (P < 0.01). Regional visitation rates varied for coyotes with current harvest data supporting survey results (P < 0.01). Significant differences occurred among years and regions for fox (P < 0.01). For raccoon, significant differences were detected among regions, among years within 4 regions, and among habitat types in 4 regions (P < 0.01). Visitation rates for opossum varied among years, regions, years within 4 regions, and by habitat within 4 regions. Significant differences were detected for skunks between years, regions, years within 2 regions, and between habitats within 3 regions.
