Lynx (Lynx canadensis)
Canada Lynx
Natural History & Ecology
Adult lynx weigh about 45 pounds and their long fur is light gray and mottled brown. Lynx prefer a mosaic of young, mature and old-growth forests in the higher elevations of the Rocky Mountains. They seek out rugged habitat with undercover thickets, trees felled by the wind, and significant natural cover—important for their den sites. Lynx typically give birth to three or four kittens in April or May, often in underbrush, uprooted trees, or hollowed-out logs.
Lynx rely on their keen eyesight and extraordinary hearing to locate their prey—primarily snowshoe hares, which comprise more than 75% of their diet. Other prey species include squirrels, voles, and grouse. Like other cats, lynx ambush their prey and pursue at fast speeds for short distances. Though excellent climbers, lynx don’t spend much time in trees, except when escaping other predators or people.
For a map of lynx habitat in the Southern Rock Mountaiins, click here (3.6MB).
Photo Credits
Lynx & Mouse: Eyewire (Royalty-Free)
