Eurasian Lynx

The shorter days and colder temperatures mean one thing for sure – winter is coming! With it comes the snow, which the Eurasian lynx is built for.  Hazard and Hudson, the two Eurasian lynx here at Riverview Park and Zoo, are ready for the temperature to drop and the snow to fly.

Reaching up to 130 cm in length and 88 lb, the Eurasian lynx is larger in size than the Canada lynx, however these species share many of the same adaptations to cold, harsh environments. Distributed across Europe, Russia and Asia, the Eurasian lynx can be found in boreal forest regions and nearby open, rocky areas with low vegetation. This habitat is perfect for finding food like deer, rabbits, and marmots.

To survive in the cold, these cats sport a double layered coat which varies in colour from deep red and brown with dense spots, to light grey and white with fewer spots depending on the characteristics of their specific habitat. Their large, fur-covered feet act as snowshoes allowing the Eurasian lynx to move undetected across the landscape. Skilled climbers, the Eurasian Lynx will also climb trees and large rocks to be in ambush position when prey comes near.

Eurasian lynx are listed as Least Concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (ICUN) Red List of endangered species, however like many species they face threats including habitat loss, and illegal hunting and trapping.

Riverview Park and Zoo is the only free admission accredited zoo in Canada and is open 365 days a year. Stop by to see Hazard and Hudson this winter – early mornings are best! You can support the Zoo by purchasing a Eurasian Lynx Adopt an Animal package this holiday season. Visit our website https://www.riverviewparkandzoo.ca/en/support-us/adopt-an-animal.aspx for more information and to see all the species available for ‘adoption’.

Mary Kate Whibbs, Riverview Park and Zoo