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Lynx lynx
Lynx canadensis
Lynx pardinus
Lynx rufus
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A Lynx is any of several medium-sized wild cats. Most are members of the genus Lynx, but there is considerable confusion about the best way to classify felids at present, and some authorities classify all lynxes as part of the genus Felis.
Appearance
Lynxes have short tails, and usually a tuft of hair on the tip of the ears. They have large paws padded for walking on snow, and long whiskers on the face. The colour of the body varies from light brown to grey and is occasionally marked with dark brown spots, especially on the limbs. They range about 5 kg or about 11 pounds (roughly the size of a large Domestic Cat) up to about 30 kg (66 pounds).
Habitat
The lynx inhabits the high altitude forests with dense cover of shrubs, reeds and grass. Though the cat hunts only on the ground, it can climb trees and swim. It is primarily found in North America and also in pockets in Himalayas.
Behaviour
The Lynx is usually solitary, though a group of cats can travel and hunt together. Mating takes place in the late winter. It rests in crevices or under ledges. It gives birth to 2 to 4 kittens at a time. It feeds on birds and mammals and often on sheep and goats.
- Lynx or Eurasian Lynx, Lynx lynx or Lynx borealis
- Canada Lynx, Lynx lynx canadensis or Lynx canadensis
- Iberian Lynx or Spanish Lynx, Lynx pardinus
- Bobcat, Lynx rufus
The Marbled Cat, Pardofelis marmorata, is sometimes also classified with the Lynxes.
Hunting Lynxes is illegal in many countries.
As of 2003, the Canada Lynx is being reintroduced to Colorado.
Gallery
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Eurasian Lynx
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Eurasian Lynx -
Eurasian Lynx cub in profile
References
External Links
- The Iberian LynxThe natural history of the Iberian lynx
- Hopes raised by Spain lynx births