DNR calls off search for bobcat that killed dog, stalked people in small Iowa town

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has called off the search for a bobcat that had scared animals and residents of Martensdale for the past few weeks.

Vince Evelsizer, a wildlife biologist for DNR, said the bobcat has not been spotted around town since Tuesday, when it was shot by a homeowner who was protecting his chicken coop. Evelsizer said he believes the bobcat likely died from his injuries.

The DNR had previously set out traps in an effort to find the bobcat, who had roamed the town of about 400 people in Warren County for weeks. It attacked a 16-year-old Shih Tzu named Bippy, who later died from his injuries.

More: Unusually bold bobcat shot after it attacks animals, stalks people in small Iowa town

"We feel like we've done our due diligence in trying to find that animal," Evelsizer said.

Bobcats are one of three wildcats native to Iowa, along with the lynx and mountain lion.

Evelsizer previously told the Des Moines Register it's unclear what prompted the bobcat's unusual boldness, though one theory is that it was raised by people. Regardless, Evelsizer stressed that the bobcat's behavior was atypical, and in general these animals do not pose a major safety threat to people.

If the bobcat is spotted in Martensdale, Evelsizer said the DNR's search will kick back into full gear with "vigilance."

Francesca Block is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at FBlock@registermedia.com or on Twitter at@francescablock3.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Bobcat that killed dog in small Iowa town is likely dead, search stops