Wildcat Mascot![]() ![]() The Wildcat mascot originated during the 1976-77 academic year at UK. Gary Tanner was the original Wildcat, dancing and entertaining thousands of UK fans at Commonwealth Stadium and Rupp Arena during athletics events. A few years later, he was joined by another Cat - walking on stilts - who made his appearance during UK's twin tower era of Melvin Turpin and Sam Bowie. Even today, the original mascot is joined by Scratch, who's a more child-friendly mascot and serves as the host of UK's official Kids Club. Today, both mascots attend each football and basketball game, several academic functions and generally serve as friendly ambassadors for the University. In Fall 2003 and 2004, Scratch was named to the Capital One All-America Mascot Teams and competed for the title of the Capital One Mascot of the Year. In January 2004, both mascots competed in the Universal Cheer Association College Mascot National Championships. The Wildcat placed eighth while Scratch came in 13th.
1. Where did the bobcat come from?
2. How old is it?
He weighed about 30 pounds at last weighing, which is normal, but large for a bobcat. (Peterson's Guides give a range from 15-35 pounds)
4. What do you feed it?
Bobcats live 15-25 years in captivity
6. Will it ever be at a home game?
We have aquired a female cub which is being cared for by Woods and Wetlands until she is old enough to hold her own with the male. We expect her to arrive next spring!
8. If you do, will they breed?
9. Is a wildcat the same as a bobcat?
This cat is male, however we will have a female arriving in the Spring when she's old enough to join our male.
11. Was the cat captured in the wild?
Bobcats are found predominantly in Eastern Kentucky, but are also found in lesser numbers in Western Kentucky. Although more rare, you may also find them in Central Kentucky as well.
13. If you can hand-raise a bobcat, do they make good pets? |
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