Lynx
Lynx canadensis
- Where
- Northern forests of North America and Eurasia
- Habitat
- Boreal forests, tundra, and mountainous regions with snow cover
- Diet
- Small mammals like rabbits, hares, and rodents
- Size
- About 2-3 feet long plus tail
- Lifespan
- Typically 10-12 years in the wild
- Conservation
- Listed as Least Concern, but habitat loss and hunting remain concerns
Fun Facts
- Lynxes have super-long whiskers to help them navigate in snow
- They can jump really high - up to 6 feet at a single bound!
- Their tufted ears help keep warm air close to their ears
Learn More
Thick, smoky-gray fur with dark spots helps hide them in shadows
Large paws act like snowshoes to distribute weight evenly
Specialized hearing lets them pinpoint prey sounds even under deep snow
Their tail acts as a counterbalance when they're running