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{{pp-semi|small=yes}}
{{pp-semi|small=yes}}
{{Automatic taxobox
{{Automatic taxobox
|italic_title = no
|italic_title = no
|name = Lynx<ref name="msw3">{{MSW3 Wozencraft |pages=541–542}}</ref>
|name = Lynx<ref name="msw3">{{MSW3 Wozencraft |pages=541–542}}</ref>
|fossil_range =
|fossil_range =
|image = Lynx heads collage.jpg
|image = <center><imagemap>
|image_caption = The four species of lynx. From top-left, clockwise: [[Eurasian lynx]] (''L. lynx''), [[Iberian lynx]] (''L. pardinus''), [[bobcat]] (''L. rufus''), [[Canada lynx]] (''L. canadensis'')
File:Lynx_collage.png|300px
|taxon = Lynx
rect 0 300 400 1 [[Canada lynx]]
|authority = [[Robert Kerr (writer)|Kerr]], 1792
rect 400 1 800 300 [[Eurasian lynx]]
|type_species = ''[[Eurasian lynx|Felis lynx]]''<ref name=MSW3b>{{MSW3 Wozencraft |id=14000151}}</ref>
rect 400 300 800 600 [[Iberian lynx]]
rect 1 300 400 600 [[bobcat]]
</imagemap></center>
|image_caption = The four species of lynx; from top-left, clockwise: [[Canada lynx]] (''L. canadensis''), [[Eurasian lynx]] (''L. lynx''), [[Iberian lynx]] (''L. pardinus''), [[bobcat]] (''L. rufus'')
|taxon = Lynx
|authority=[[Robert Kerr (writer)|Kerr]], 1792
|type_species = ''[[Felis lynx]]''
|type_species_authority = [[Carl Linnaeus|Linnaeus]], [[10th edition of Systema Naturae|1758]]
|type_species_authority = [[Carl Linnaeus|Linnaeus]], [[10th edition of Systema Naturae|1758]]
|subdivision_ranks = [[Species]]
|subdivision_ranks = Species
|subdivision = *''[[Lynx canadensis]]''
|subdivision =
*''[[Lynx lynx]]''
*''[[Lynx lynx]]'' {{small|Linnaeus, 1758}}
*''[[Lynx pardinus]]''
*''[[Lynx canadensis]]'' {{small|Kerr, 1792}}
*''[[Lynx rufus]]''
*''[[Lynx pardinus]]'' {{small|(Temminck, 1827)}}
*{{extinct}}''[[Lynx issiodorensis]]''
*''[[Lynx rufus]]'' {{small|(Schreber, 1777)}}
*{{extinct}}''[[Lynx thomasi]]''
*{{extinct}}''[[Lynx issiodorensis]]'' {{small|(Croizet & Jobert, 1828)}}
*{{extinct}}''[[Lynx thomasi]]'' {{small|Geraads, 1980}}<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Geraads |first1=Denis Date=1980 |title=Un nouveau felide (Fissipeda, mammalia) du pleistocene moyen du Maroc: Lynx thomasi N. sp. |journal=Geobios | date=1980 |volume=13 |issue=3 |pages=441–444|doi=10.1016/S0016-6995(80)80079-9| bibcode=1980Geobi..13..441G }}</ref>
|range_map = Lynx range.png
*{{extinct}}''[[Lynx hei]]'' {{small|Jiangzuo ''et al.'', 2022}}
|range_map_caption = ''Lynx'' ranges: red = Iberian, purple = Canadian, green = Bobcat, orange = Eurasian
|range_map = Lynx range.png
|range_map_caption = ''Lynx'' ranges: {{legend|#f0942c|Eurasian lynx (''[[Lynx lynx]]'')}}
{{legend|#9176a8|Canadian lynx (''[[Lynx canadensis]]'')}}
{{legend|#e41831|Iberian lynx (''[[Lynx pardinus]]'')}}
{{legend|#47b64a|Bobcat (''[[Lynx rufus]]'')}}
}}
}}
A '''lynx''' ({{IPAc-en|l|ɪ|ŋ|k|s}} {{respell|links}};<ref name="OxfordDic">{{cite web |title=Definition of lynx from Oxford Dictionary |work=[[Oxford Dictionaries (website)|Oxford Dictionaries]] |url=http://oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0488070?rskey=Z0YVvr&result=2 |access-date=October 5, 2010 |archive-date=April 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412102649/http://oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0488070?rskey=Z0YVvr&result=2 |url-status=dead }}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> {{plural form}}: '''lynx''' or '''lynxes'''<ref name="Longman">{{cite web |title=lynx — Definition from Longman English Dictionary Online |work=[[Longman Dictionary]] |url=http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/lynx |access-date=October 5, 2010}}</ref>) is any of the four [[wikt:extant|extant]] [[species]] (the [[Canada&nbsp;lynx]], [[Iberian&nbsp;lynx]], [[Eurasian&nbsp;lynx]] and the [[bobcat]]) within the medium-sized wild [[Felidae|cat]] [[genus]] ''Lynx''. The name originated in [[Middle English]] via Latin from the Greek word {{translit|grc|lynx}} ({{wikt-lang|el|λύγξ}}),<ref name="OxfordDic" /> derived from the [[Indo-European root]] {{wikt-lang|ine-pro|*leuk-}} ({{gloss|light}}, {{gloss|brightness}}), in reference to the luminescence of its [[tapetum lucidum|reflective eyes]].{{cn|date=July 2024}}

A '''lynx''' ({{IPAc-en|l|ɪ|ŋ|k|s}};<ref name="OxfordDic">{{cite web |title=Definition of lynx from Oxford Dictionary |work=[[Oxford Dictionaries (website)|Oxford Dictionaries]] |url=http://oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0488070?rskey=Z0YVvr&result=2 |access-date=October 5, 2010 |archive-date=April 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412102649/http://oxforddictionaries.com/view/entry/m_en_gb0488070?rskey=Z0YVvr&result=2 |url-status=dead }}{{dead link|date=September 2022|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> plural '''lynx''' or '''lynxes'''<ref name="Longman">{{cite web |title=lynx — Definition from Longman English Dictionary Online |work=[[Longman Dictionary]] |url=http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/lynx |access-date=October 5, 2010}}</ref>) is any of the four species (the [[Canada&nbsp;lynx]], [[Iberian&nbsp;lynx]], [[Eurasian&nbsp;lynx]], or [[bobcat]]) within the medium-sized wild [[Felidae|cat]] [[genus]] ''Lynx''. The name ''lynx'' originated in [[Middle English]] via Latin from the Greek word λύγξ,<ref name="OxfordDic" /> derived from the [[Indo-European root]] ''leuk-'' ('light, brightness')<ref name="ConstelOfWords">{{cite web |title=Lynx |url=http://www.constellationsofwords.com/Constellations/Lynx.htm |access-date=October 5, 2010}}</ref> in reference to the luminescence of its [[tapetum lucidum|reflective eyes]].<ref name="ConstelOfWords" />


== Appearance ==
== Appearance ==
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Lynx have a short tail, characteristic tufts of black hair on the tips of their ears, large, padded paws for walking on snow and long whiskers on the face. Under their neck, they have a ruff, which has black bars resembling a [[bow tie]], although this is often not visible.
Lynx have a short tail, characteristic tufts of black hair on the tips of their ears, large, padded paws for walking on snow and long whiskers on the face. Under their neck, they have a ruff, which has black bars resembling a [[bow tie]], although this is often not visible.


Body colour varies from medium brown to goldish to beige-white, and is occasionally marked with dark brown spots, especially on the limbs. All species of lynx have white fur on their chests, bellies and on the insides of their legs, fur which is an extension of the chest and belly fur. The lynx's colouring, fur length and paw size vary according to the climate in their range. In the [[Southwestern United States]], they are short-haired, dark in colour and their paws are smaller and less padded. As climates get colder and more northerly, lynx have progressively thicker fur, lighter colour, and their paws are larger and more padded to adapt to the snow. Their paws may be larger than a human hand or foot.
Body colour varies from medium brown to goldish to beige-white, and is occasionally marked with dark brown spots, especially on the limbs. All species of lynx have white fur on their chests, bellies and on the insides of their legs, fur which is an extension of the chest and belly fur. The lynx's colouring, fur length and paw size vary according to the climate in their range. In the [[Southwestern United States]], they are short-haired, dark in colour and their paws are smaller and less padded. In colder northern climates lynx have thicker and lighter fur as well as larger and more padded paws that are well-adapted to snow.


The smallest species are the [[bobcat]] and the [[Canada lynx]], while the largest is the [[Eurasian lynx]], with considerable variations within species.
The smallest species are the [[bobcat]] and the [[Canada lynx]], while the largest is the [[Eurasian lynx]], with considerable variations within species.
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! Height (standing at shoulders)
! Height (standing at shoulders)
|-
|-
| ROWSPAN=2 | [[Eurasian&nbsp;lynx]]
| ROWSPAN=2 | [[Eurasian&nbsp;lynx]]<br>[[File:Winter im Wildpark Bad Mergentheim, Luchs.jpg|100 px]]
| males
| males
| {{cvt|18|to|30|kg|lb}}
| {{cvt|18|to|30|kg|lb}}
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|females || {{cvt|18|kg|lb}}
|females || {{cvt|18|kg|lb}}
|-
|-
| [[Canada&nbsp;lynx]] || Both || {{cvt|8|to|14|kg|lb|abbr=}}|| {{cvt|90|cm|in|frac=2}} ||{{cvt|48|to|56|cm|in|frac=2}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.canadiangeographic.ca/article/animal-facts-canada-lynx|title=Animal Facts: Canada Lynx|last=politis|date=2016-04-04|website=Canadian Geographic|language=en|access-date=2020-01-01}}</ref><!--Ref applies to all three-->
| [[Canada&nbsp;lynx]]<br>[[File:Lynx Canadensis.jpg|100 px]] || Both || {{cvt|8|to|14|kg|lb|abbr=}}|| {{cvt|90|cm|in|frac=2}} ||{{cvt|48|to|56|cm|in|frac=2}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.canadiangeographic.ca/article/animal-facts-canada-lynx|title=Animal Facts: Canada Lynx|last=politis|date=2016-04-04|website=Canadian Geographic|language=en|access-date=2020-01-01}}</ref><!--Ref applies to all three-->
|-
|-
| ROWSPAN=2 | [[Iberian&nbsp;lynx]]
| ROWSPAN=2 | [[Iberian&nbsp;lynx]]<br>[[File:Iberian Lynx full body.JPG|100 px]]
| males
| males
|{{cvt|12.9|kg|lb}}
|{{cvt|12.9|kg|lb}}
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|females || {{cvt|9.4|kg|lb|frac=4}}
|females || {{cvt|9.4|kg|lb|frac=4}}
|-
|-
| ROWSPAN=2 |[[Bobcat]]
| ROWSPAN=2 |[[Bobcat]]<br><span style="{{MirrorH}}">[[File:Calero Creek Trail Bobcat.jpg|100 px]]</span>
| males
| males
|{{cvt|7.3|to|14|kg|lb|frac=4}}<ref name="utd">{{cite book |last=Sparano |first=Vin T. |title=Complete Outdoors Encyclopedia |publisher=St. Martin's Press |date=September 1998 |isbn=0-312-19190-1 |page=[https://archive.org/details/completeoutdoors00spar/page/228 228] |url=https://archive.org/details/completeoutdoors00spar/page/228 }}</ref>
|{{cvt|7.3|to|14|kg|lb|frac=4}}<ref name="utd">{{cite book |last=Sparano |first=Vin T. |title=Complete Outdoors Encyclopedia |publisher=St. Martin's Press |date=September 1998 |isbn=0-312-19190-1 |page=[https://archive.org/details/completeoutdoors00spar/page/228 228] |url=https://archive.org/details/completeoutdoors00spar/page/228 }}</ref>
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== Species ==
== Species ==
The four living species of the genus ''Lynx'' are believed to have evolved from ''[[Lynx issiodorensis]]'', which lived in Europe and Africa during the late [[Pliocene]] to early [[Pleistocene]]. The Pliocene felid ''[[Felis rexroadensis]]'' from North America has been proposed as an even earlier ancestor; however, this was larger than any living species, and is not currently classified as a true lynx.<ref name="WCoW">{{cite book |last=Sunquist |first=Mel |last2=Sunquist |first2=Fiona |title=Wild cats of the World |page=[https://archive.org/details/wildcatsofworld00sunq/page/153 153] |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |year=2002 |isbn=0-226-77999-8 |url=https://archive.org/details/wildcatsofworld00sunq/page/153 }}</ref><ref name=Werdelin1981>{{cite journal|author1=Werdelin, Lars|title=The evolution of lynxes|journal=Annales Zoologici Fennici|volume=18|issue=1|pages=37–71|year=1981|url=http://catsg.org/iberianlynx/04_library/4_3_publications/W/Werdelin_1981_Evolution_of_lynxes.pdf}}</ref>
The four living species of the genus ''Lynx'' are believed to have evolved from ''[[Lynx issiodorensis]]'', which lived in Europe and Africa during the late [[Pliocene]] to early [[Pleistocene]]. The Pliocene felid ''Felis rexroadensis'' from North America has been proposed as an even earlier ancestor; however, this was larger than any living species, and is not currently classified as a true lynx.<ref name="WCoW">{{cite book |last1=Sunquist |first1=Mel |last2=Sunquist |first2=Fiona |title=Wild cats of the World |page=[https://archive.org/details/wildcatsofworld00sunq/page/153 153] |publisher=University of Chicago Press |location=Chicago |year=2002 |isbn=0-226-77999-8 |url=https://archive.org/details/wildcatsofworld00sunq/page/153 }}</ref><ref name=Werdelin1981>{{cite journal|author1=Werdelin, Lars|title=The evolution of lynxes|journal=Annales Zoologici Fennici|volume=18|issue=1|pages=37–71|year=1981|url=http://catsg.org/iberianlynx/04_library/4_3_publications/W/Werdelin_1981_Evolution_of_lynxes.pdf}}</ref> Another [[Extinction|extinct]] species of ''Lynx'', ''L. shansiensis'', inhabited what is now northern China during the Early Pleistocene.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Tong |first1=Haowen |last2=Zhang |first2=Bei |last3=Chen |first3=Xi |last4=Jiangzuo |first4=Qigao |last5=Liu |first5=Jinyi |last6=Wang |first6=Xiaoming |date=10 June 2023 |title=New carnivoran remains from the Early Pleistocene Shanshenmiaozui site in Nihewan Basin, northern China |url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1040618223001313 |journal=[[Quaternary International]] |language=en |volume=658 |pages=60–79 |doi=10.1016/j.quaint.2023.04.003 |bibcode=2023QuInt.658...60T |access-date=28 April 2024 |via=Elsevier Science Direct}}</ref>


=== Eurasian lynx ===
=== Eurasian lynx ===
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{{Main|Eurasian lynx}}
{{Main|Eurasian lynx}}
Of the four lynx species, the Eurasian lynx (''Lynx lynx'') is the largest in size. It is native to European, [[Central Asia]]n, and [[Siberia]]n forests. While its [[conservation status]] has been classified as "[[least concern]]", populations of Eurasian lynx have been reduced or [[local extinction|extirpated]] from much of Europe, where it is now being reintroduced.
Of the four lynx species, the Eurasian lynx (''Lynx lynx'') is the largest in size. It is native to European, [[Central Asia]]n, and [[Siberia]]n forests. While its [[conservation status]] has been classified as "[[least concern]]", populations of Eurasian lynx have been reduced or [[local extinction|extirpated]] from much of Europe, where it is now being reintroduced.
During the summer, the Eurasian lynx has a relatively short, reddish or brown coat which is replaced by a much thicker silver-grey to greyish-brown coat during winter.<!--WCoW--> The lynx hunts by stalking and jumping on its prey, helped by the rugged, forested country in which it resides. A favorite prey for the lynx in its woodland habitat is [[roe deer]]. It will feed however on whatever animal appears easiest, as it is an opportunistic predator much like its cousins.<ref name="WCoW" />
During the summer, the Eurasian lynx has a relatively short, reddish or brown coat which is replaced by a much thicker silver-grey to greyish-brown coat during winter.<!--WCoW--> The lynx hunts by stalking and jumping on its prey, helped by the rugged, forested country in which it resides. A favorite prey for the lynx in its woodland habitat is [[Capreolus|roe deer]]. It will feed however on whatever animal appears easiest, as it is an opportunistic predator much like its cousins.<ref name="WCoW" />


=== Canada lynx ===
=== Canada lynx ===
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{{Main|Canada lynx}}
{{Main|Canada lynx}}


The Canada lynx (''Lynx canadensis''), or Canadian lynx, is a [[North America]]n felid that ranges in [[forest]] and [[tundra]] regions<ref name="BBCWildfactCanadaLynx">{{cite web |title=Canada lynx, American lynx |work=Science & Nature: Animals – Wildfacts |publisher=BBC |date=July 25, 2008 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/wildfacts/factfiles/28.shtml |access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> across [[Canada]] and into [[Alaska]], as well as some parts of the [[northern United States]]. Historically, the Canadian lynx ranged from Alaska across Canada and into many of the northern [[U.S. state]]s. In the eastern states, it resided in the transition zone in which boreal coniferous forests yielded to deciduous forests.<ref name="National Wildlife Federation: Canadian Lynx">{{cite web |title=Canada Lynx |work=Science & Nature: Animals – Wildfacts |publisher=National Wildlife Federation |url=http://www.nwf.org/wildlife/wildlife-library/mammals/canada-lynx.aspx |access-date=March 1, 2013}}</ref> By 2010, after an 11-year effort, it had been successfully reintroduced into [[Colorado]], where it had become extirpated in the 1970s.<ref name="Col"><br />• {{cite news |last=Banda |first=P. Solomon |title=Lynx reintroduction ruled a success in Colorado |agency=[[Associated Press]] |newspaper=[[The Denver Post]] |date=September 18, 2010 |url=http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_16107178 |access-date=September 18, 2010}}<br />• {{cite news |title=Colorado: Lynx No Longer Missing |agency=Associated Press |newspaper=New York Times |page=A13 |date=September 17, 2010 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/18/us/18brfs-LYNXNOLONGER_BRF.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220103/https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/18/us/18brfs-LYNXNOLONGER_BRF.html |archive-date=2022-01-03 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=May 29, 2011}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name="DOW">{{cite press release
The Canada lynx (''Lynx canadensis''), or Canadian lynx, is a [[North America]]n felid that ranges in [[forest]] and [[tundra]] regions<ref name="BBCWildfactCanadaLynx">{{cite web |title=Canada lynx, American lynx |work=Science & Nature: Animals – Wildfacts |publisher=BBC |date=July 25, 2008 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/wildfacts/factfiles/28.shtml |access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> across [[Canada]] and into [[Alaska]], as well as some parts of the [[northern United States]]. Historically, the Canadian lynx ranged from Alaska across Canada and into many of the northern [[U.S. state]]s. In the eastern states, it resided in the transition zone in which boreal coniferous forests yielded to deciduous forests.<ref name="National Wildlife Federation: Canadian Lynx">{{cite web |title=Canada Lynx |work=Science & Nature: Animals – Wildfacts |publisher=National Wildlife Federation |url=http://www.nwf.org/wildlife/wildlife-library/mammals/canada-lynx.aspx |access-date=March 1, 2013 |archive-date=February 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130217131604/http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Library/Mammals/Canada-Lynx.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref> By 2010, after an 11-year effort, it had been successfully reintroduced into [[Colorado]], where it had become extirpated in the 1970s.<ref name="Col"><br />• {{cite news |last=Banda |first=P. Solomon |title=Lynx reintroduction ruled a success in Colorado |agency=[[Associated Press]] |newspaper=[[The Denver Post]] |date=September 18, 2010 |url=http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_16107178 |access-date=September 18, 2010}}<br />• {{cite news |title=Colorado: Lynx No Longer Missing |agency=Associated Press |newspaper=New York Times |page=A13 |date=September 17, 2010 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/18/us/18brfs-LYNXNOLONGER_BRF.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220103/https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/18/us/18brfs-LYNXNOLONGER_BRF.html |archive-date=2022-01-03 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=May 29, 2011}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name="DOW">{{cite press release
|title=DOW Declares Colorado Lynx Reintroduction Program a Success
|title=DOW Declares Colorado Lynx Reintroduction Program a Success
|publisher=[[Colorado Division of Wildlife]]
|publisher=[[Colorado Division of Wildlife]]
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|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718225025/http://wildlife.state.co.us/NewsMedia/PressReleases/Press.asp?PressId=6650
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718225025/http://wildlife.state.co.us/NewsMedia/PressReleases/Press.asp?PressId=6650
|archive-date=July 18, 2011
|archive-date=July 18, 2011
}}</ref><ref name="CDOW">{{cite web|title=Success of the Lynx Reintroduction Program |publisher=[[Colorado Division of Wildlife]] |date=September 7, 2010 |url=http://wildlife.state.co.us/Research/Mammal/Lynx/ |access-date=September 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100827101521/http://wildlife.state.co.us/Research/Mammal/Lynx/ |archive-date=August 27, 2010}}</ref> In 2000, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated the Canada lynx a [[Threatened species#United States|threatened species]] in the [[lower 48 states]].<ref name="FedReg">{{cite web |title=§&nbsp;17.40 Special rules—mammals |work=65 Federal Register 16051 16086 |format=PDF |page=35 |publisher=[[National Archives and Records Administration]] |date=March 24, 2000 |url=http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/fr3552.pdf |access-date=May 30, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111018042312/http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/fr3552.pdf |archive-date=October 18, 2011}}</ref>
}}</ref><ref name="CDOW">{{cite web|title=Success of the Lynx Reintroduction Program |publisher=[[Colorado Division of Wildlife]] |date=September 7, 2010 |url=http://wildlife.state.co.us/Research/Mammal/Lynx/ |access-date=September 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100827101521/http://wildlife.state.co.us/Research/Mammal/Lynx/ |archive-date=August 27, 2010}}</ref> In 2000, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated the Canada lynx a [[Threatened species#United States|threatened species]] in the [[lower 48 states]].<ref name="FedReg">{{cite web |title=§&nbsp;17.40 Special rules—mammals |work=65 Federal Register 16051 16086 |page=35 |publisher=[[National Archives and Records Administration]] |date=March 24, 2000 |url=http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/fr3552.pdf |access-date=May 30, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111018042312/http://ecos.fws.gov/docs/federal_register/fr3552.pdf |archive-date=October 18, 2011}}</ref>


The Canada lynx is a good climber and swimmer; it constructs rough shelters under fallen trees or rock ledges.<!--BBCWildfactCanadaLynx--> It has a thick coat and broad paws, and is twice as effective as the bobcat at supporting its weight on the snow.<!--BBCWildfactCanadaLynx--> The Canada lynx feeds almost exclusively on [[snowshoe hare]]s; its population is highly dependent on the population of this prey animal.<!--BBCWildfactCanadaLynx--> It will also hunt medium-sized [[mammal]]s and [[bird]]s if hare numbers fall.<ref name="BBCWildfactCanadaLynx" />
The Canada lynx is a good climber and swimmer; it constructs rough shelters under fallen trees or rock ledges.<!--BBCWildfactCanadaLynx--> It has a thick coat and broad paws, and is twice as effective as the bobcat at supporting its weight on the snow.<!--BBCWildfactCanadaLynx--> The Canada lynx feeds almost exclusively on [[snowshoe hare]]s; its population is highly dependent on the population of this prey animal.<!--BBCWildfactCanadaLynx--> It will also hunt medium-sized [[mammal]]s and [[bird]]s if hare numbers fall.<ref name="BBCWildfactCanadaLynx" />
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{{Main|Iberian lynx}}
{{Main|Iberian lynx}}


The Iberian lynx (''Lynx pardinus'') is an [[endangered species]] native to the [[Iberian Peninsula]] in [[Southern Europe]]. It was the most endangered cat species in the world,<ref name="decpaper">{{cite web |last=Ward |first=Dan |title=LynxBrief |publisher=IberiaNature |date=December 12, 2008 |url=http://www.iberianature.com/material/documents/LynxBrief12E.pdf |access-date=May 30, 2011}}</ref> but conservation efforts have changed its status from critical to endangered. According to the Portuguese conservation group SOS Lynx, if this species dies out, it will be the first [[Felidae|feline]] extinction since the ''[[Smilodon]]'' 10,000 years ago.<ref name="Cubs">{{cite news |last=Gonçalves |first=Eduardo |title=Captured cubs hold future of Europe's tiger |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2002/apr/21/highereducation.biologicalscience |date=April 21, 2002 |access-date=November 14, 2010}}</ref> The species used to be classified as a subspecies of the Eurasian lynx, but is now considered a separate species. Both species occurred together in central [[Europe]] in the [[Pleistocene]] epoch, being separated by habitat choice.<ref name="iucncsg">{{cite web|url=http://lynx.uio.no/jon/lynx/lynxib01.htm|title=Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus)|year=1996|work=Cat Specialist Group Species Accounts|publisher=IUCN – The World Conservation Union|format=Page navigation contains an imagemap|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724185701/http://lynx.uio.no/jon/lynx/lynxib01.htm|archive-date=July 24, 2011|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> The Iberian lynx is believed to have evolved from ''[[Lynx issiodorensis]]''.<ref name="Bjorn">{{cite book |first=Björn |last=Kurtén |title=Pleistocene Mammals of Europe |year=1968}}</ref>
The Iberian lynx (''Lynx pardinus'') is a [[vulnerable species]] native to the [[Iberian Peninsula]] in [[Southern Europe]]. It was the most endangered cat species in the world,<ref name="decpaper">{{cite web |last=Ward |first=Dan |title=LynxBrief |publisher=IberiaNature |date=December 12, 2008 |url=http://www.iberianature.com/material/documents/LynxBrief12E.pdf |access-date=May 30, 2011}}</ref> but conservation efforts have changed its status from critical to endangered to vulnerable. The loss of the species would have been the first [[Felidae|feline]] extinction since the ''[[Smilodon]]'' 10,000 years ago.<ref name="Cubs">{{cite news |last=Gonçalves |first=Eduardo |title=Captured cubs hold future of Europe's tiger |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2002/apr/21/highereducation.biologicalscience |date=April 21, 2002 |access-date=November 14, 2010}}</ref> The species used to be classified as a subspecies of the Eurasian lynx, but is now considered a separate species. Both species occurred together in central [[Europe]] in the [[Pleistocene]] epoch, being separated by habitat choice.<ref name="iucncsg">{{cite web|url=http://lynx.uio.no/jon/lynx/lynxib01.htm|title=Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus)|year=1996|work=Cat Specialist Group Species Accounts|publisher=IUCN – The World Conservation Union|format=Page navigation contains an imagemap|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724185701/http://lynx.uio.no/jon/lynx/lynxib01.htm|archive-date=July 24, 2011|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> The Iberian lynx is believed to have evolved from ''[[Lynx issiodorensis]]''.<ref name="Bjorn">{{cite book |first=Björn |last=Kurtén |title=Pleistocene Mammals of Europe |year=1968}}</ref>

==== Conservation efforts ====
In 2004, a Spanish government survey showed just two isolated breeding populations of Iberian lynx in southern Spain, totaling about 100 lynx (including only 25 breeding females).<ref name="2005LynxBreeding">[http://wwf.panda.org/wwf_news/?19458/First-captive-bred-birth-of-Iberian-lynx First captive-bred birth of Iberian lynx], [[World Wide Fund for Nature]] (March 30, 2005).</ref> An agreement signed in 2003 by the [[Spanish Environment Ministry]] and the Andalusian Environment Council seeks to breed the Iberian lynx [[Captive breeding|in captivity]].<ref name="2005LynxBreeding" /> Three Iberian lynx cubs were born as part of the Spanish program in 2005, at the Centro El Acebuche facility in [[Doñana National Park]].<ref name="2005LynxBreeding" />

As a result of the Spanish government program and efforts by others (such as the [[World Wide Fund for Nature|WWF]] and the EU's [[The LIFE Programme|Life projects]]), the Iberian lynx "has recovered from the brink of extinction";<ref name="WWFIberianProfile">[http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/species/profiles/mammals/iberian_lynx/ Species Profiles: Mammals: Iberian lynx] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111231111157/http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/species/profiles/mammals/iberian_lynx/ |date=2011-12-31 }} [[World Wide Fund for Nature]] (accessed March 21, 2015).</ref> from 2000 to 2015, the population of Iberian lynx more than tripled.<ref>[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-spain-lynx-idUSKBN0NK1ZT20150429 Two Iberian lynx cubs born in Spanish reintroduction program], Reuters (April 29, 2015).</ref> The [[IUCN]] reassessed the species from "[[critically endangered]]" to "[[Endangered species|endangered]]" in 2015.<ref name="WWFIberianProfile" /> A 2014 census of the species showed 327 animals in [[Andalucia]] in the "reintroduction areas" of [[Sierra Morena]] and [[Montes de Toledo]] ([[Castilla-La Mancha]], Spain), the Matachel Valley ([[Extremadura]], Spain), and the [[Guadiana Valley]] ([[Portugal]]).<ref name="WWFIberianProfile" />


=== Bobcat ===
=== Bobcat ===
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{{Main|Bobcat}}
{{Main|Bobcat}}


The bobcat (''Lynx rufus'') is a North American wild cat. With 13 recognized subspecies,<!--Not in ref, common fact?--> the bobcat is common throughout southern Canada, the [[continental United States]], and northern Mexico.<ref name=ZielinskiKucera>{{cite book |first1=William J. |last1=Zielinski |first2=Thomas E. |last2=Kucera |year=1998 |title=American Marten, Fisher, Lynx, and Wolverine: Survey Methods for Their Detection. |page=74 |location=USA |publisher=Diane Publishing |isbn=978-0-7881-3628-3}}</ref> Like the Eurasian lynx, its conservation status is "least concern."<ref>{{Cite iucn |title=''Lynx rufus'' |author=Kelly, M. |author2=Morin, D. |author3=Lopez-Gonzalez, C. A. |name-list-style=amp |year=2016 |page=e.T12521A50655874}}</ref> The bobcat is an adaptable predator that inhabits [[Temperate deciduous forest|deciduous]], [[Temperate coniferous forest|coniferous]], or [[Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests|mixed]] woodlands, but unlike other ''Lynx'', does not depend exclusively on the deep forest, and ranges from swamps and desert lands to mountainous and agricultural areas, its spotted coat serving as camouflage.<ref name=Whitaker>{{cite book |first1=William J. |last1=Hamilton |first2=John O. |last2=Whitaker |title=Mammals of the Eastern United States |publisher=Cornell University Press |year=1998 |isbn=0-8014-3475-0 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/mammalsofeastern00whit/page/493 493–496] |url=https://archive.org/details/mammalsofeastern00whit/page/493 }}</ref> The population of the bobcat depends primarily on the population of its prey.<ref name="Proposal">{{cite web|title=Deletion of Bobcat (Lynx rufus) from Appendix II |work=Thirteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties, Proposal 5 |format=PDF |publisher=[[Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora]] |date=October 2004 |url=http://www.cites.org/common/cop/13/raw_props/US-Lynx%20rufus.pdf |access-date=May 31, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102215719/http://www.cites.org/common/cop/13/raw_props/US-Lynx%20rufus.pdf |archive-date=November 2, 2013}}</ref> Nonetheless, the bobcat is often killed by larger predators such as [[coyote]]s.<ref>Fedriani, J. M., T. K. Fuller, R. M. Sauvajot and E. C. York. 2000. Competition and intraguild predation among three sympatric carnivores. Oecologia, 125:258–270.</ref>
The bobcat (''Lynx rufus'') is a North American wild cat. With 13 recognized subspecies,<!--Not in ref, common fact?--> the bobcat is common throughout southern Canada, the [[continental United States]], and northern Mexico.<ref name=ZielinskiKucera>{{cite book |first1=William J. |last1=Zielinski |first2=Thomas E. |last2=Kucera |year=1998 |title=American Marten, Fisher, Lynx, and Wolverine: Survey Methods for Their Detection. |page=74 |location=USA |publisher=Diane Publishing |isbn=978-0-7881-3628-3}}</ref> Like the Eurasian lynx, its conservation status is "least concern."<ref>{{Cite iucn |title=''Lynx rufus'' |author=Kelly, M. |author2=Morin, D. |author3=Lopez-Gonzalez, C. A. |name-list-style=amp |year=2016 |page=e.T12521A50655874}}</ref> The bobcat is an adaptable predator that inhabits [[Temperate deciduous forest|deciduous]], [[Temperate coniferous forest|coniferous]], or [[Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests|mixed]] woodlands, but unlike other ''Lynx'', does not depend exclusively on the deep forest, and ranges from swamps and desert lands to mountainous and agricultural areas, its spotted coat serving as camouflage.<ref name=Whitaker>{{cite book |first1=William J. |last1=Hamilton |first2=John O. |last2=Whitaker |title=Mammals of the Eastern United States |publisher=Cornell University Press |year=1998 |isbn=0-8014-3475-0 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/mammalsofeastern00whit/page/493 493–496] |url=https://archive.org/details/mammalsofeastern00whit/page/493 }}</ref> The population of the bobcat depends primarily on the population of its prey.<ref name="Proposal">{{cite web|title=Deletion of Bobcat (''Lynx rufus'') from Appendix II |work=Thirteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties, Proposal 5 |publisher=[[Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora]] |date=October 2004 |url=http://www.cites.org/common/cop/13/raw_props/US-Lynx%20rufus.pdf |access-date=May 31, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102215719/http://www.cites.org/common/cop/13/raw_props/US-Lynx%20rufus.pdf |archive-date=November 2, 2013}}</ref> Nonetheless, the bobcat is often killed by larger predators such as [[coyote]]s.<ref>Fedriani, J. M., T. K. Fuller, R. M. Sauvajot and E. C. York. 2000. Competition and intraguild predation among three sympatric carnivores. Oecologia, 125:258–270.</ref>


The bobcat resembles other species of the genus ''Lynx'', but is on average the smallest of the four. Its coat is variable, though generally tan to grayish brown, with black streaks on the body and dark bars on the forelegs and tail. The ears are black-tipped and pointed, with short, black tufts. There is generally an off-white color on the lips, chin, and underparts. Bobcats in the desert regions of the southwest have the lightest-colored coats, while those in the northern, forested regions have the darkest.<ref name="cah" />
The bobcat resembles other species of the genus ''Lynx'', but is on average the smallest of the four. Its coat is variable, though generally tan to grayish brown, with black streaks on the body and dark bars on the forelegs and tail. The ears are black-tipped and pointed, with short, black tufts. There is generally an off-white color on the lips, chin, and underparts. Bobcats in the desert regions of the southwest have the lightest-colored coats, while those in the northern, forested regions have the darkest.<ref name="cah" />
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Several lynx resettlement projects begun in the 1970s have been successful in various regions of [[Switzerland]]. Since the 1990s, there have been numerous efforts to resettle the Eurasian lynx in [[Germany]], and since 2000, a small population can now be found in the [[Harz]] mountains near [[Bad Lauterberg]].
Several lynx resettlement projects begun in the 1970s have been successful in various regions of [[Switzerland]]. Since the 1990s, there have been numerous efforts to resettle the Eurasian lynx in [[Germany]], and since 2000, a small population can now be found in the [[Harz]] mountains near [[Bad Lauterberg]].


The lynx is found in the [[Białowieża Forest]] in northeastern [[Poland]], in [[Estonia]] and in the northern and western parts of China, particularly the [[Tibetan Plateau]]. In [[Romania]], the numbers exceed 2,000, the largest population in Europe outside of [[Russia]], although most experts consider the official population numbers to be overestimated.<ref name="KORA">{{cite web |title=Status and conservation of the Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) in Europe in 2001 |format=PDF [17.09 Mb] |publisher=Coordinated research projects for the conservation and management of carnivores in Switzerland (KORA) |url=http://www.kora.ch/fileadmin/file_sharing/5_Bibliothek/52_KORA_Publikationen/520_KORA_Berichte/KORA_19_E_Lynx_Survey_Europe_part_1_Intro.pdf |access-date=January 8, 2014}}</ref>
The lynx is found in the [[Białowieża Forest]] in northeastern [[Poland]], and in the northern and western parts of China, particularly the [[Tibetan Plateau]]. In [[Romania]], the numbers exceed 2,000, the largest population in Europe outside of [[Russia]], although most experts consider the official population numbers to be overestimated.<ref name="KORA">{{cite web |title=Status and conservation of the Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) in Europe in 2001 |format=PDF [17.09 Mb] |publisher=Coordinated research projects for the conservation and management of carnivores in Switzerland (KORA) |url=http://www.kora.ch/fileadmin/file_sharing/5_Bibliothek/52_KORA_Publikationen/520_KORA_Berichte/KORA_19_E_Lynx_Survey_Europe_part_1_Intro.pdf |access-date=January 8, 2014 |archive-date=January 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140108110335/http://www.kora.ch/fileadmin/file_sharing/5_Bibliothek/52_KORA_Publikationen/520_KORA_Berichte/KORA_19_E_Lynx_Survey_Europe_part_1_Intro.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>


The lynx is more common in northern Europe, especially in [[Norway]], [[Sweden]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], and the northern parts of [[Russia]]. The Swedish population is estimated to be 1200–1500 individuals, spread all over the country, but more common in middle Sweden and in the mountain range. The lynx population in Finland was 1900–2100 individuals in 2008, and the numbers have been increasing every year since 1992. The lynx population in Finland is estimated currently to be larger than ever before.<ref name="ilves">{{cite web|title=Ilves |language=fi |publisher=Riista- ja kalatalouden tutkimuslaitos |location=Finland |date=October 14, 2010 |url=http://www.rktl.fi/riista/riistavarat/suurpedot_2009/ilves.html |access-date=May 30, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717035746/http://www.rktl.fi/riista/riistavarat/suurpedot_2009/ilves.html |archive-date=July 17, 2011}}</ref> Lynx in [[United Kingdom|Britain]] were wiped out in the 17th century, but there have been calls to reintroduce them to curb the numbers of [[deer]].<ref name="TelegrReint">{{cite news |last=Moore |first=Matthew |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/4612084/Lynx-should-be-reintroduced-to-Britain-to-cull-deer.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090216184401/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/4612084/Lynx-should-be-reintroduced-to-Britain-to-cull-deer.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 16, 2009 |title=Lynx 'should be reintroduced to Britain to cull deer' |publisher=Telegraph.co.uk |date=February 13, 2009 |access-date=November 14, 2010 |location=London}}</ref>
The lynx is more common in northern Europe, especially in [[Norway]], [[Sweden]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], and the northern parts of [[Russia]]. The Swedish population is estimated to be 1200–1500 individuals, spread all over the country, but more common in middle Sweden and in the mountain range. The lynx population in Finland was 1900–2100 individuals in 2008, and the numbers have been increasing every year since 1992. The lynx population in Finland is estimated currently to be larger than ever before.<ref name="ilves">{{cite web|title=Ilves |language=fi |publisher=Riista- ja kalatalouden tutkimuslaitos |location=Finland |date=October 14, 2010 |url=http://www.rktl.fi/riista/riistavarat/suurpedot_2009/ilves.html |access-date=May 30, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717035746/http://www.rktl.fi/riista/riistavarat/suurpedot_2009/ilves.html |archive-date=July 17, 2011}}</ref> Lynx in [[United Kingdom|Britain]] were wiped out in the 17th century, but there have been calls to reintroduce them to curb the numbers of [[deer]].<ref name="TelegrReint">{{cite news |last=Moore |first=Matthew |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/4612084/Lynx-should-be-reintroduced-to-Britain-to-cull-deer.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090216184401/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/4612084/Lynx-should-be-reintroduced-to-Britain-to-cull-deer.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 16, 2009 |title=Lynx 'should be reintroduced to Britain to cull deer' |publisher=Telegraph.co.uk |date=February 13, 2009 |access-date=November 14, 2010 |location=London}}</ref>


The endangered [[Iberian lynx]] lives in southern [[Spain]] and formerly in eastern [[Portugal]]. There is an Iberian lynx reproduction center outside [[Silves Municipality, Portugal|Silves]] in the [[Algarve]] in southern Portugal.
The endangered [[Iberian lynx]] lives in southern [[Spain]] and formerly in eastern [[Portugal]].{{Needs update|date=September 2022|reason=See [[Iberian lynx]]. As of today, the range of the Iberian lynx also includes Portugal.}} There is an Iberian lynx reproduction center outside [[Silves Municipality, Portugal|Silves]] in the [[Algarve]] in southern Portugal.


=== North America ===
=== North America ===
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== See also ==
== See also ==
* [[Caracal]], a small African cat with lynx-like ears
* [[Caracal]], a small African cat with lynx-like ears and (relatively) short tail
* [[Lynx (constellation)]]
* [[Lynx (constellation)]]
* [[Lynx (mythology)]]
* [[Lynx (mythology)]]
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{{Carnivora|Fe.}}
{{Carnivora|Fe.}}
{{Feliformia|Fel.|state=collapsed}}

{{Taxonbar|from=Q677014}}
{{Taxonbar|from=Q677014}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}

Revision as of 12:34, 22 July 2024

Lynx[1]
The four species of lynx. From top-left, clockwise: Eurasian lynx (L. lynx), Iberian lynx (L. pardinus), bobcat (L. rufus), Canada lynx (L. canadensis)
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Suborder: Feliformia
Family: Felidae
Subfamily: Felinae
Genus: Lynx
Kerr, 1792
Type species
Felis lynx[3]
Species
Lynx ranges:
  Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx)
  Canadian lynx (Lynx canadensis)
  Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus)
  Bobcat (Lynx rufus)

A lynx (/lɪŋks/ links;[4] pl.: lynx or lynxes[5]) is any of the four extant species (the Canada lynx, Iberian lynx, Eurasian lynx and the bobcat) within the medium-sized wild cat genus Lynx. The name originated in Middle English via Latin from the Greek word lynx (λύγξ),[4] derived from the Indo-European root *leuk- ('light', 'brightness'), in reference to the luminescence of its reflective eyes.[citation needed]

Appearance

Profile view of a lynx

Lynx have a short tail, characteristic tufts of black hair on the tips of their ears, large, padded paws for walking on snow and long whiskers on the face. Under their neck, they have a ruff, which has black bars resembling a bow tie, although this is often not visible.

Body colour varies from medium brown to goldish to beige-white, and is occasionally marked with dark brown spots, especially on the limbs. All species of lynx have white fur on their chests, bellies and on the insides of their legs, fur which is an extension of the chest and belly fur. The lynx's colouring, fur length and paw size vary according to the climate in their range. In the Southwestern United States, they are short-haired, dark in colour and their paws are smaller and less padded. In colder northern climates lynx have thicker and lighter fur as well as larger and more padded paws that are well-adapted to snow.

The smallest species are the bobcat and the Canada lynx, while the largest is the Eurasian lynx, with considerable variations within species.

Physical characteristics of Lynx species
Species Sex Weight Length Height (standing at shoulders)
Eurasian lynx
males 18 to 30 kg (40 to 66 lb) 81 to 129 cm (32 to 51 in) 70 cm (27+12 in)[6]
females 18 kg (40 lb)
Canada lynx
Both 8 to 14 kg (18 to 31 lb) 90 cm (35+12 in) 48 to 56 cm (19 to 22 in)[7]
Iberian lynx
males 12.9 kg (28 lb) 85 to 110 cm (33+12 to 43+12 in) 60 to 70 cm (23+12 to 27+12 in)[8][9]
females 9.4 kg (20+34 lb)
Bobcat
males 7.3 to 14 kg (16 to 30+34 lb)[10] 71 to 100 cm (28 to 39+12 in)[10] 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 in)[11]
females 9.1 kg (20 lb)

Species

The four living species of the genus Lynx are believed to have evolved from Lynx issiodorensis, which lived in Europe and Africa during the late Pliocene to early Pleistocene. The Pliocene felid Felis rexroadensis from North America has been proposed as an even earlier ancestor; however, this was larger than any living species, and is not currently classified as a true lynx.[12][13] Another extinct species of Lynx, L. shansiensis, inhabited what is now northern China during the Early Pleistocene.[14]

Eurasian lynx

Eurasian lynx

Of the four lynx species, the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) is the largest in size. It is native to European, Central Asian, and Siberian forests. While its conservation status has been classified as "least concern", populations of Eurasian lynx have been reduced or extirpated from much of Europe, where it is now being reintroduced. During the summer, the Eurasian lynx has a relatively short, reddish or brown coat which is replaced by a much thicker silver-grey to greyish-brown coat during winter. The lynx hunts by stalking and jumping on its prey, helped by the rugged, forested country in which it resides. A favorite prey for the lynx in its woodland habitat is roe deer. It will feed however on whatever animal appears easiest, as it is an opportunistic predator much like its cousins.[12]

Canada lynx

Canada lynx

The Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), or Canadian lynx, is a North American felid that ranges in forest and tundra regions[15] across Canada and into Alaska, as well as some parts of the northern United States. Historically, the Canadian lynx ranged from Alaska across Canada and into many of the northern U.S. states. In the eastern states, it resided in the transition zone in which boreal coniferous forests yielded to deciduous forests.[16] By 2010, after an 11-year effort, it had been successfully reintroduced into Colorado, where it had become extirpated in the 1970s.[17][18][19] In 2000, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated the Canada lynx a threatened species in the lower 48 states.[20]

The Canada lynx is a good climber and swimmer; it constructs rough shelters under fallen trees or rock ledges. It has a thick coat and broad paws, and is twice as effective as the bobcat at supporting its weight on the snow. The Canada lynx feeds almost exclusively on snowshoe hares; its population is highly dependent on the population of this prey animal. It will also hunt medium-sized mammals and birds if hare numbers fall.[15]

Iberian lynx

Iberian lynx

The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is a vulnerable species native to the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe. It was the most endangered cat species in the world,[21] but conservation efforts have changed its status from critical to endangered to vulnerable. The loss of the species would have been the first feline extinction since the Smilodon 10,000 years ago.[22] The species used to be classified as a subspecies of the Eurasian lynx, but is now considered a separate species. Both species occurred together in central Europe in the Pleistocene epoch, being separated by habitat choice.[23] The Iberian lynx is believed to have evolved from Lynx issiodorensis.[24]

Bobcat

Bobcat

The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a North American wild cat. With 13 recognized subspecies, the bobcat is common throughout southern Canada, the continental United States, and northern Mexico.[25] Like the Eurasian lynx, its conservation status is "least concern."[26] The bobcat is an adaptable predator that inhabits deciduous, coniferous, or mixed woodlands, but unlike other Lynx, does not depend exclusively on the deep forest, and ranges from swamps and desert lands to mountainous and agricultural areas, its spotted coat serving as camouflage.[27] The population of the bobcat depends primarily on the population of its prey.[28] Nonetheless, the bobcat is often killed by larger predators such as coyotes.[29]

The bobcat resembles other species of the genus Lynx, but is on average the smallest of the four. Its coat is variable, though generally tan to grayish brown, with black streaks on the body and dark bars on the forelegs and tail. The ears are black-tipped and pointed, with short, black tufts. There is generally an off-white color on the lips, chin, and underparts. Bobcats in the desert regions of the southwest have the lightest-colored coats, while those in the northern, forested regions have the darkest.[11]

Behavior and diet

The lynx is usually solitary, although a small group of lynx may travel and hunt together occasionally. Mating takes place in the late winter and once a year the female gives birth to between one and four kittens. The gestation time of the lynx is about 70 days. The young stay with the mother for one more winter, a total of around nine months, before moving out to live on their own as young adults. The lynx creates its den in crevices or under ledges. It feeds on a wide range of animals from white-tailed deer, reindeer, roe deer, small red deer, and chamois, to smaller, more usual prey: snowshoe hares, fish, foxes, sheep, squirrels, mice, turkeys and other birds, and goats. It also eats ptarmigans, voles, and grouse.

Distribution and habitat

A lynx stalking prey

The lynx inhabits high altitude forests with dense cover of shrubs, reeds, and tall grass. Although this cat hunts on the ground, it can climb trees and can swim swiftly, catching fish.

Europe and Asia

The Eurasian lynx ranges from central and northern Europe across Asia up to Northern Pakistan and India. In Iran, they live in Mount Damavand area.[30] Since the beginning of the 20th century, the Eurasian lynx was considered extinct in the wild in Slovenia and Croatia. A resettlement project, begun in 1973, has successfully reintroduced lynx to the Slovenian Alps and the Croatian regions of Gorski Kotar and Velebit, including Croatia's Plitvice Lakes National Park and Risnjak National Park. In both countries, the lynx is listed as an endangered species and protected by law. The lynx was distributed throughout Japan during Jōmon period; with no paleontological evidence thereafter suggesting extinction at that time.[31]

Several lynx resettlement projects begun in the 1970s have been successful in various regions of Switzerland. Since the 1990s, there have been numerous efforts to resettle the Eurasian lynx in Germany, and since 2000, a small population can now be found in the Harz mountains near Bad Lauterberg.

The lynx is found in the Białowieża Forest in northeastern Poland, and in the northern and western parts of China, particularly the Tibetan Plateau. In Romania, the numbers exceed 2,000, the largest population in Europe outside of Russia, although most experts consider the official population numbers to be overestimated.[32]

The lynx is more common in northern Europe, especially in Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Finland, and the northern parts of Russia. The Swedish population is estimated to be 1200–1500 individuals, spread all over the country, but more common in middle Sweden and in the mountain range. The lynx population in Finland was 1900–2100 individuals in 2008, and the numbers have been increasing every year since 1992. The lynx population in Finland is estimated currently to be larger than ever before.[33] Lynx in Britain were wiped out in the 17th century, but there have been calls to reintroduce them to curb the numbers of deer.[34]

The endangered Iberian lynx lives in southern Spain and formerly in eastern Portugal.[needs update] There is an Iberian lynx reproduction center outside Silves in the Algarve in southern Portugal.

North America

A mother and cub, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska

The two Lynx species in North America, Canada lynx and bobcats, are both found in the temperate zone. While the bobcat is common throughout southern Canada, the continental United States and northern Mexico, the Canada lynx is present mainly in boreal forests of Canada and Alaska.[25]

See also

References

  1. ^ Wozencraft, W. C. (2005). "Order Carnivora". In Wilson, D. E.; Reeder, D. M. (eds.). Mammal Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference (3rd ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press. pp. 541–542. ISBN 978-0-8018-8221-0. OCLC 62265494.
  2. ^ Geraads, Denis Date=1980 (1980). "Un nouveau felide (Fissipeda, mammalia) du pleistocene moyen du Maroc: Lynx thomasi N. sp". Geobios. 13 (3): 441–444. Bibcode:1980Geobi..13..441G. doi:10.1016/S0016-6995(80)80079-9.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  3. ^ Wozencraft, W. C. (2005). "Order Carnivora". In Wilson, D. E.; Reeder, D. M. (eds.). Mammal Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference (3rd ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press. pp. 532–628. ISBN 978-0-8018-8221-0. OCLC 62265494.
  4. ^ a b "Definition of lynx from Oxford Dictionary". Oxford Dictionaries. Archived from the original on April 12, 2016. Retrieved October 5, 2010.
  5. ^ "lynx — Definition from Longman English Dictionary Online". Longman Dictionary. Retrieved October 5, 2010.
  6. ^ Jackson, Peter (April 24, 1997). "Eurasian lynx". lynx.uio.no. Archived from the original on May 27, 2007. Retrieved May 28, 2007.
  7. ^ politis (2016-04-04). "Animal Facts: Canada Lynx". Canadian Geographic. Retrieved 2020-01-01.
  8. ^ "Iberian lynx – Lynx pardinus". Species Data Sheets. United Nations Environment ProgrammeWorld Conservation Monitoring Centre. 2004. Archived from the original on May 10, 2008.
  9. ^ Johnson, Christopher (2011). "Lynx pardinus – Spanish lynx". Animal Diversity Web. University of Michigan Museum of Zoology. Retrieved May 29, 2011.
  10. ^ a b Sparano, Vin T. (September 1998). Complete Outdoors Encyclopedia. St. Martin's Press. p. 228. ISBN 0-312-19190-1.
  11. ^ a b Cahalane, Victor H (March 1, 2005). Meeting the Mammals. Kessinger Publishing. p. 64. ISBN 1-4179-9522-X.
  12. ^ a b Sunquist, Mel; Sunquist, Fiona (2002). Wild cats of the World. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. p. 153. ISBN 0-226-77999-8.
  13. ^ Werdelin, Lars (1981). "The evolution of lynxes" (PDF). Annales Zoologici Fennici. 18 (1): 37–71.
  14. ^ Tong, Haowen; Zhang, Bei; Chen, Xi; Jiangzuo, Qigao; Liu, Jinyi; Wang, Xiaoming (10 June 2023). "New carnivoran remains from the Early Pleistocene Shanshenmiaozui site in Nihewan Basin, northern China". Quaternary International. 658: 60–79. Bibcode:2023QuInt.658...60T. doi:10.1016/j.quaint.2023.04.003. Retrieved 28 April 2024 – via Elsevier Science Direct.
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    Banda, P. Solomon (September 18, 2010). "Lynx reintroduction ruled a success in Colorado". The Denver Post. Associated Press. Retrieved September 18, 2010.
    "Colorado: Lynx No Longer Missing". New York Times. Associated Press. September 17, 2010. p. A13. Archived from the original on 2022-01-03. Retrieved May 29, 2011.
  18. ^ "DOW Declares Colorado Lynx Reintroduction Program a Success" (Press release). Colorado Division of Wildlife. September 17, 2010. Archived from the original on July 18, 2011. Retrieved September 18, 2010.
  19. ^ "Success of the Lynx Reintroduction Program". Colorado Division of Wildlife. September 7, 2010. Archived from the original on August 27, 2010. Retrieved September 18, 2010.
  20. ^ "§ 17.40 Special rules—mammals" (PDF). 65 Federal Register 16051 16086. National Archives and Records Administration. March 24, 2000. p. 35. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 18, 2011. Retrieved May 30, 2011.
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  25. ^ a b Zielinski, William J.; Kucera, Thomas E. (1998). American Marten, Fisher, Lynx, and Wolverine: Survey Methods for Their Detection. USA: Diane Publishing. p. 74. ISBN 978-0-7881-3628-3.
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  • Data related to Lynx at Wikispecies
  • Media related to Lynx at Wikimedia Commons