When a Turkey Call Turns into a Bobcat Encounter: The Unbelievable Story of Claude Strother’s Wild Hunt

Imagine a peaceful day in the Alabama wilderness, the air thick with the scent of pine and the distant gobble of a turkey echoing through the trees. Now imagine that day taking a sharp turn into the realm of the surreal when an 82-year-old seasoned hunter finds himself face-to-face with a bobcat that mistakenly perceives him as prey. Welcome to the extraordinary true story of Claude Strother’s unexpected bobcat attack—a tale so wild it sounds like something straight out of a Hollywood comedy or a viral meme. Grab your camouflage and a sense of humor, because this is one hunting adventure you won't forget.

The Legendary Hunter: Meet Claude Strother

Before diving into the wild encounter, let’s get to know the man behind the story. Claude Strother, an Alabama native and avid hunter since 1975, has spent decades honing his skills in the woods of Wilcox County. His passion for hunting, especially turkey hunting, has made him a local legend—and a bit of a folk hero in his community. Known for his patience, expertise, and a keen ear for turkey calls that could make even the most seasoned gobbler turn around, Claude embodies the spirit of the true outdoorsman.

At 82 years young, Claude shows that age is just a number, especially when it comes to hunting stories. His sense of humor and resilience shine through, even in moments of unexpected danger. But nothing could have prepared him for the surprise attack from an unlikely predator: the bobcat.

The Day of the Attack: Camouflage, Calls, and an Unexpected Visitor

Setting the Scene

It was a typical day for Claude—dressed in full camouflage, blending seamlessly into the Alabama woods. With his trusty turkey call in hand, he was on a mission to lure in a gobbler for a good hunt. The sounds of his calls echoed through the trees, mimicking the perfect turkey distress and attracting curious birds—and apparently, a curious bobcat as well.

The Mistaken Identity

What happened next is a testament to how unpredictable nature can be. As Claude was focused on calling turkeys, a bobcat, likely intrigued or startled by the sounds, crept closer. In a moment that sounds like something out of a slapstick comedy, the bobcat mistook Claude for prey. Without warning, it struck from behind, biting the back of his head—a move that surely startled not just the cat but anyone within earshot.

Surviving a Bobcat Bite: Minor Injuries and a Major Laugh

The Aftermath of the Surprise Attack

Despite the dramatic turn of events, Claude’s quick thinking and calm demeanor helped him handle the situation. He managed to fend off the feline, which, perhaps realizing it had made a mistake or simply deciding the hunter was no longer an easy target, retreated into the woods.

Injuries and Resilience

Remarkably, Claude sustained only minor injuries—just a bite on the back of his head. No stitches needed, no trips to the emergency room, and certainly no Hollywood drama—just another day in the Alabama woods. His resilience and sense of humor shone through as he recounted the incident, joking that the bobcat probably mistook his expert turkey calls for a tasty snack.

The Selfie That Says It All: A Hunter’s Victory Photo

Capturing the Moment

What’s a modern hunter without a selfie? After the incident, Claude took out his phone and snapped a few photos—proof that he was alive and well after his wild encounter. The photos show him grinning ear-to-ear, sporting a slightly disheveled hat and a story that will be retold for generations.

Humor and Perspective

He humorously remarked, “I guess my turkey calls are too good—they brought in that little panther!” His lighthearted attitude is a reminder that sometimes, the best stories come from the most unexpected moments in the woods. It’s a classic example of how humor can turn a potentially dangerous situation into a memorable adventure.

What This Story Teaches Us About Hunting and Nature

Wildlife Encounters Are Unpredictable

This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of wildlife. Even seasoned hunters like Claude can find themselves in unexpected situations. Always be prepared, stay alert, and respect the animals you pursue—and those who might mistake you for prey.

Humor as a Survival Tool

Claude’s humor and resilience exemplify the importance of maintaining a lighthearted perspective in challenging situations. When life (or a bobcat) throws you a curveball, a good laugh might be just what you need to keep going.

Respect for the Outdoors

This story is also a gentle reminder to respect the wilderness and the creatures that inhabit it. These animals aren’t just targets or obstacles—they’re part of a delicate ecosystem that deserves our admiration and caution.

The Takeaway for Hunters and Nature Enthusiasts

If you’re a hunter, camper, or outdoor adventurer, take a page from Claude Strother’s book: stay vigilant, embrace the unexpected, and keep your sense of humor. Whether you’re calling in gobblers or just enjoying a peaceful day in the woods, remember that nature is full of surprises—some adorable, some potentially dangerous, and others downright hilarious.

And next time you’re out in Alabama or anywhere else with a wild reputation, keep an eye out for the unexpected—because sometimes, the wildest stories happen when you least expect them. Just ask Claude Strother, the man who survived a bobcat bite and turned it into a story for the ages.

In Conclusion: A Hunter’s Tale for the Ages

Claude Strother’s encounter with a bobcat in Alabama is a perfect blend of humor, resilience, and a reminder of the unpredictable beauty of the wilderness. His story is a testament to the fact that even in the face of unexpected danger, a good attitude and a little humor can turn a near-disaster into a memorable adventure. So, whether you’re an experienced hunter or a weekend explorer, take a lesson from Claude: respect nature, stay alert, and always be ready to laugh—even when a bobcat bites back.

Happy hunting—and watch out for those sneaky bobcats!

Man attacked by a Bobcat!