The lynx is a medium-sized wild cat belonging to the genus Lynx, which includes four species: Canada lynx, Iberian lynx, Eurasian lynx, and bobcat. The term “lynx” comes from the Greek word for “light,” referring to their reflective eyes.
Lynxes have short tails, ear tufts, padded paws for snow, and long whiskers. Their fur ranges from medium brown to beige-white, often with dark spots, and all species have white fur on their chests and bellies. Adaptations vary by climate, with northern lynxes exhibiting thicker fur and larger paws than those in the Southwestern U.S.
All lynxes are believed to have descended from an ancient species, Lynx issiodorensis, which appeared around 4 million years ago. They are generally solitary, mating in late winter and giving birth to one to four kittens after a gestation period of about 70 days. Cubs remain with their mother for approximately nine months before becoming independent.
Lynxes inhabit high-altitude forests with dense vegetation and primarily feed on a variety of animals, including deer, hares, small mammals, and birds, while also being capable of climbing trees and swimming.
