Lynx Facts

Here are thirteen facts about the lynx.

1. Lynx is a feline genus that includes four cats: Canadian Lynx, Eurasian Lynx, Iberian Lynx and Bobcat.

2. Lynx are cats of northern hemisphere and have thus evolved into having long hair, as an adaptation for the cold winters.

3. The Desert Lynx or Caracal is not scientifically included in the Lynx genus, and resides in Arabia.

4. The word Lynx is derived from the Greek word meaning 'to shine' and is a reference to the cat's bright eyes.

5. Lynx cats are made distinct by their unique physical appearance - including short tails, prominent neck ruffs and long tufted ears.

6. Lynx usually reside in forested, mountainous territories and are thus stalk and ambush predators like most felines.

7. Despite being solitary by nature, some lynx cats (particularly females) have been observed hunting cooperatively.

8. Eurasian Lynx are the largest species of their genus and are found all across northern Europe and Asia.

9. Canadian Lynx are the second largest and are seen across Canada and Alaska.

10. Iberian Lynx are present in Spain and are amongst the most endangered of all wild cats.

11. Bobcats are the most adaptable member of this genus, and are perhaps the best mid-sized predators of North America.

12. Historical persecution for fur trade has meant that all the beautiful lynx cats have suffered heavily at the hands of man everywhere.

13. Today hunting of lynx is outlawed in most of their natural habitats and there are signs of recovery in numbers of some of the lynx species.