Latin Name: Lynx canadensis
Habitat: Spanning much of the northern hemisphere,
including Alaska, Canada, and the northern continental
United States; other species populate high elevations
of western and central Europe and Asia
Classification: Mammal, carnivore
You could find a lynx almost anywhere in mainland Alaska, as it is the only wild cat native to the state. They frequently dwell in dense forests that provide cover and shelter. Full-grown lynx are usually between 2 and 3 feet long, and weigh anywhere between 15 and 30 pounds. Lynx are solitary animals that rarely hunt or travel in packs, but they do travel long distances. They are fearful of humans and easily able to travel quickly and quietly without being seen. In Alaska especially, the lynx's life span is dependent upon its favorite prey: the arctic, or snowshoe, hare.
Think about it: Why would it be important for a wild cat to move quietly?
The lynx population in Alaska rises and falls with that of the snowshoe hare in an up-and-down cycle that roughly spans 10 years. Although the lynx has been known to hunt ptarmigan, squirrel, and other small rodents, there is little doubt that its favorite food is the hare. When the hare population is scarce, the lynx suffers and sometimes starves. On rare occasions, it might resort to hunting larger animals such as sheep, foxes, or even caribou, when it is desperate for food. Unlike many cats, the lynx does not particularly like fish, but will occasionally eat salmon.
Think about it: Biologists track population changes in hares and lynx. The years when there are plenty of snowshoe hares are called "bunny highs." Why would the lynx numbers increase during a bunny high?
Lynx have warm gray fur with black streaks or spots. Their fur may turn to a light brown color in spring and summer months to give added protection and cover in the forest. They have wide, furry paws that allow them soft balance and agility to track down prey, even in deep snow. Powerful long legs allow them to move and capture prey at great speeds. The lynx's short tail is usually black at the tip and they have beautiful tufts of black fur at the tips of their ears. The black points at their ears look a bit like antennae and may help to give the lynx extra-sensitive hearing.
Think about it: How would big, wide paws be helpful for an animal walking on the snow?
Like many related cats, the lynx is a good climber. But unlike the ordinary house cat, lynx do not avoid water. They are good swimmers and though they often stay in one area, they will travel long distances when prey becomes scarce.
Think about it: Most house cats hate baths. Why doesn't the lynx?
Because lynx fur is very thick and warm, it is an expensive and precious material for making parkas and hats. Hunters still track and trap lynx in rural Alaska, where the animal is often referred to as "the link."
Think about it: Have you ever seen a parka made with lynx skins? How would you be able to recognize it?
The lynx is on the list of "Threatened" species in the contiguous states under the Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to hunt them except in Alaska and Montana. To learn more about what's happening with this special wild cat, see the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service page at http://mountain-prairie.fws.gov/species/mammals/lynx/
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Image provided by Anchorage Daily News.
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