The lynx, a member of the big cat family, are a solitary animal found across North America, Asia and Europe. Known for their ear tufts, long fur and exceptional hunting skills, this cat is a favourite amongst big cat lovers!
This will change depending on which species you are looking at, but generally the lynx has a tuft of black hair on the tips of its ears and its short or bobbed tail. They also have long legs to help them navigate through snowy conditions. They will range in colour from beige white to medium brown with white fur on their chests, inside of their legs and their bellies.
This will vary per species, but on average a lynx is 32-40 inches in length with an extra 4-8 inches for the tail, and will weigh between 22-44lbs.
A baby lynx is called a ‘kit’ or a ‘kitten’.
The bobcat is a member of the lynx family and, alongside the iberian, canadian and eurasian lynx they belong to the same lynx genus. Bobcats are simply the smallest species of lynx.
Although a lynx will normally avoid humans they will defend themselves if cornered. And, as they are a member of the cat family they can be dangerous.
This depends on the species and location but the lynx will eat any of the following:
Although we don’t know for sure it’s suggested that the lynx’s ear tufts are used to improve their hearing. Another common theory is that they act as whiskers to help them sense their environment.
The Iberian lynx is the only species of lynx that is endangered and this is a result of a combination of issues including a reduction in available prey (often rabbits), a reduction in habitat and hunting. However, due to conservation efforts the Iberian lynx has improved from critically endangered to endangered.
It’s believed that due to a combination of reduced woodland to live in and hunting the Eurasian lynx was driven to extinction in the UK around 1,300 years ago.
The habitat of the lynx is often high-altitude forests covered in shrubs and tall grass. They are also often found within snowy landscapes.
A lynx can jump as far as 25 feet horizontally, and 6 feet high!
This can vary per species but the average lifespan of the lynx is about 15.5 years.They can live longer in captivity.
The lynx can be found across Europe, Asia and North America across a range of countries from India, Pakistan, USA and more!
Despite being a big cat species the lynx can’t roar. Instead, they meow and purr.
It’s estimated that the lynx population is around 50,000.
There are four types of lynx: the Bobcat (Lynx Rufus), Canada Lynx (Lynx Canadensis), Iberian Lynx (Lynx Pardinus) and Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx).,
You can support our conservation and welfare of Petra, our eurasian lynx by purchasing one of our adoption packages. This helps towards the cost of looking after Petra (including veterinary fees). When you adopt one of our animals you will receive your own certificate, information pack about your cat, bookmark, stickers and posters! You will also be able to visit on one of our supporters afternoons that are held throughout the year.
March 22, 2024
The new series kicks off with a double dose of excitement from the iconic San Diego Zoo and its breathtaking Safari Park in the USA. With over 15,000 animal residents, including Komodo dragons, Galapagos tortoises, and polar bears, get ready to come face to face with nature’s wonders. Join brothers – Aaron, Tyler, and Cam – as they embark on a fact-finding mission
The Big Cat Sanctuary is pleased to announce the newest addition to the family, Kuda, a Sri Lankan Rusty Spotted Cat. Kuda is 5 years old and was born on the 30th of April 2018 at Hamerton Zoo Park. He joined us on Tuesday 13th February after a smooth 3-hour journey from Hamerton.
The London Beach Country Hotel Spa and Golf Club have partnered with The Big Cat Sanctuary for many years and they offer benefits of an excellent charity scheme. The way it works is you are able to enjoy Sunday lunch, cream teas, lunches, dinners and even a round of golf and the full value of the food including the green fees for golf ate donated to The Big Cat Sanctuary as the charity of your choice.
