Originally when the Bobcat was introduced into Cub Scouting it was a pin that was not to be worn on the uniform, it was designed for “civilian” wear. The purpose was to introduce new members to the ideals and methods of the Cub Scout program. During this time Cub Scouting only served three ages so one set of requirements was adequate. Later the Bobcat was changed to a cloth badge to be worn on the uniform. Now Cub Scouting serves youth from kindergarten to 5th grade and one set of requirements is ineffective in meeting the objectives. How to effectively introduce the values of Scouting (character & leadership) to a Cub Scout in Kindergarten is vastly different than how to do so with a Cub Scout in 4th grade. 

Bobcat has become a required Adventure for each rank with a focus on character & leadership. It is designed to be the first required Adventure to be completed each year. The requirements for the Bobcat for each rank are different and designed to be age-appropriate.