lynxes

Lynxes are medium-sized wild cats belonging to the genus Lynx within the family Felidae. The genus comprises four extant species: the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), the Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), the bobcat (Lynx rufus), and the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus). They share a stocky build, long legs, a short tail with a black tip, and characteristic tufted ears. Their fur is typically patterned with spots or streaks and varies by species and season. Adaptations include large paws that function as snowshoes, good hearing and night vision, and a keen sense of smell.

Lynxes inhabit forested and mountainous regions across Eurasia and North America, from boreal forests to deserts and scrubland. The Canada lynx and Eurasian lynx are widespread in northern forests; the bobcat occupies a broader range in North America; the Iberian lynx is native to the Iberian Peninsula and is the most threatened of the four.

Diet is carnivorous, focusing on small to medium-sized vertebrates. The Canada and Iberian lynxes have a strong preference for their respective key prey—snowshoe hare for the Canada lynx and rabbits for the Iberian lynx—though they will take other prey if needed.

Reproduction occurs seasonally in most populations. Litter size ranges from one to four kittens, with a gestation of about 60 to 70 days. Lifespan in the wild is typically 10 to 15 years for larger species, shorter in smaller ones.

Conservation status varies by species. The Iberian lynx is Critically Endangered but has seen population increases due to conservation programs. The other lynx species are of least concern or near threatened, depending on region.