‘I heard a crazy noise I’ve never heard before’: ​Georgia man fends off rabid bobcat with bare hands in harrowing attack​

Hunter Hudson of Midway, Georgia, bravely fought off a rabid bobcat with his bare hands in a chilling encounter that underscores the unpredictability of wildlife. Hudson was enjoying a quiet campfire when the attack happened. Georgia health officials have now warned of rabies risks in the area.​

Hudson told Georgia news outlet WJCL, he was relaxing by a campfire when he suddenly heard a rustling noise. Before he could react, a bobcat lunged at him, and a struggle followed.

Despite the ferocity of the attack, Hudson managed to fend off the animal, sustaining injuries in the process. The bobcat was later captured and tested positive for rabies, confirming the severity of the threat. 

“I took my thumbs and made it so he couldn’t breathe”

RABID BOBCAT ATTACK: A Georgia man describes what happened when a bobcat, which later tested positive for rabies, ambushed him in the dead of night. @TiaMaggioTV reports: https://t.co/xBFXTrVf2J pic.twitter.com/2TXkCZhzkh

— WJCL News (@WJCLNews) April 29, 2025

Speaking with WJCL, Hudson added, “I wasn’t looking for the bobcat, the bobcat found me and came out and jumped on my shoulder.” 

Hudson said his gun was out of reach, so he reached around and grabbed the animal and pulled it as hard as he could back in front of him. “I took my thumbs and made it so he couldn’t breathe,” Hudson said. 

In response to the incident, Georgia health officials have issued a warning to residents, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and prompt medical attention in the event of animal attacks. They noted that rabies can circulate in wildlife populations, posing risks to both humans and pets. 

The local community has expressed concern over the attack, with many residents taking extra precautions to protect themselves and their pets. Authorities have advised the public to avoid contact with wild animals and to report any unusual behavior immediately.​

Hudson’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the importance of preparedness. His quick thinking and bravery likely prevented a more tragic outcome, highlighting the need for awareness and caution in areas where wildlife encounters are possible.

Another rabid bobcat in Arizona

News of the Hudson bobcat attack came about a week after two hikers encountered a rabid bobcat in the Santa Rita Mountains near Tucson, 

The animal lunged at one hiker, biting and clawing before turning on the other, jumping onto his back. Despite attempts to fend it off, the bobcat persisted until one of the hikers managed to kill it with a rock. 

Both sustained injuries and were treated with rabies vaccinations and antibiotics. Officials later confirmed the bobcat was rabid, warning of increased rabies activity in the region and urging caution for those venturing outdoors.