Extremely Envious: Unexpected Bobcat Encounter in the Wild

A recently uploaded Imgur video titled "Extremely Envious" has garnered significant attention online, showcasing an unexpected encounter with two bobcats. The video, which has sparked a diverse range of reactions, depicts a serene yet thrilling moment where the majestic creatures appear unperturbed by human presence.

The footage shows a woman, seemingly well-prepared for a hike, clad in leather and spotless shoes, encountering the bobcats. Despite her camera-ready appearance, the authenticity of the wildlife encounter has been questioned by some viewers. One comment noted, "Alright fine, I don't really want to, but I'll be the cynical one. How they set it up isn't obvious, but it's suspicious. She looks like she just left the mall where she made them get rain pants so they wouldn't get icky. The jacket is leather, and her shoes have never touched dirt before. Her face is camera-ready so that on her first hike ever she has a once in lifetime wildlife encounter? If it were average looking schmoes wearing quality but well-worn hiking togs, then fine. But this? Sus."

While the skepticism persists, others express admiration and caution. A user shared, "Totally chill but always best to be cautious," highlighting the need for mindfulness when encountering wild animals. Another echoed the sentiment of awe with a hint of restraint, "Would pet. Would regret trying."

The video also elicited comments reflecting on the behavior of wild animals around humans. One viewer pointed out, "Whether this video is real or staged, wild animals only get close to humans when they've been fed by humans in their past; even if it was from a distance as they know the (even lingering) scent of human. Via survival instincts they remember food sources. Videos abound of foxes & c**** coming onto forest-adjacent backyard decks for handouts. But love for wild animals comes with a healthy respect for them." This observation underscores the importance of respecting wildlife and understanding their instincts.

Another user recounted a personal experience, "I saw a bobcat on a mtn bike trail once after rounding a corner. I stopped and we stared at each other from about 10’ apart. After a bit, it ditched into the brush and I continued riding. I could hear the bobcat running alongside me as I rode up the trail," illustrating how such encounters, though rare, do happen.

The bobcats' behavior led some to speculate, "Nice kitties! Maybe other hikers have fed them before? Maybe these hikers?" While another suggested, "Probably young siblings who don't know yet to be caution of humans."

The video's charm lies in its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and the inherent curiosity both humans and animals exhibit. As one viewer aptly put it, "You're not prey and you're not inherently viewed as a predator, every now and then you're just a curiosity."

Whether staged or organic, the "Extremely Envious" video offers a captivating glimpse into a rare moment of connection with nature. While the desire to approach and pet these "very pretty dangerfloofs" is strong, it is vital to remember the importance of respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe distance. The debate over the video's authenticity may continue, but the awe it inspires remains undeniable.