8 Facts about the 4 Lynx Species

The lynx is a genus in the family of felines. There are a total of four different lynx species: the Iberian, the Eurasian, the Red (Bobcat), and Canadian lynx. Although they share many similarities, scientists are certain that each is a distinct species, not subspecies of one another.

There’s a lot to discuss about these fascinating animals, so let’s dive right in! Here’s what makes these four lynx species both unique and alike.

1.) The Iberian lynx is the rarest feline in the world

Also known as the Spanish lynx or pardel lynx, the largest population is in Doñana National Park in southern Spain. In 2007, it was estimated that only 100 individuals lived here. Its near extinction was due to the decline in rabbit populations, its main prey, and hunting. Thanks to a dedicated conservation program, it has moved from critically endangered to endangered, with the population now about four times what it was.

With its spotted coat and feline-like features, the Iberian lynx is the smallest of its kin, weighing only 5–15 kg. It has excellent vision, capable of spotting a mouse from 75 meters, a rabbit from 300 meters, and a deer from 500 meters. It stalks its prey stealthily and requires a rabbit a day to sustain itself.

2.) The Iberian Lynx Raises its Fur When Scared or Stressed

This spotted lynx evolved during the early Pleistocene, becoming a distinct species around 1.98–0.7 million years ago. Its closest relative is the Eurasian lynx.

When frightened or stressed, like domestic cats, it puffs up to look larger. Long fur between its paw pads allows it to move silently and withstand cold climates by regulating body temperature.

3.) The Eurasian Lynx Can Be Found in Hungary

Mainly found in the forests of Northern Europe and Siberia, the Eurasian lynx is rare in Hungary but does live in the Northern Hungarian Mountains, especially in Aggtelek and Bükk National Parks. Fortunately, their population is steadily increasing.

Primarily active at night but sometimes spotted during the day, this lynx can travel up to 20 kilometers while hunting alone. Its diet ranges from small mammals to fawns, which it approaches with powerful leaps, knocking them down with its paws.

4.) The Eurasian Lynx Has Snowshoe-like Paws

Among felines, lynxes are the least “cat-like” in body structure, with long legs ending in large, round, strong paws crucial for snowy environments. These paws distribute its weight over a large area, functioning like snowshoes and preventing it from sinking into deep, loose snow. Only the wolverine surpasses it in this aspect.

Although a poor long-distance runner, it excels in short sprints and long jumps, aided by its slender hind legs. Its claws are less curved and retractable on all four paws, aiding in swift movement. The Eurasian lynx’s excellent hearing is likely enhanced by its facial whiskers, which act like a parabolic dish, and the tuft on its ears helps pinpoint sound sources, much like the caracal.

5.) The Bobcat is the Hardiest

This beauty is one of two lynx species in North America, ranging from southern Canada to northern Mexico. It demonstrates remarkable adaptability, maintaining a stable population despite increasing human encroachment and being hunted for its fur and as sport. It sometimes appears in suburban yards, where it may climb a tree to escape dogs.

Researchers believe the red lynx i. e. the bobcat descended from the Eurasian lynx, arriving in North America around 2.6 million years ago. It was driven south by glaciation and developed into the red lynx over about 20,000 years.

6.) The Bobcat’s Call Resembles a Woman’s Scream

The red lynx isn’t fond of cold weather or snow. Its paws aren’t as wide as those of its relatives. Although a talented swimmer, it avoids water, reflecting its feline nature. Its senses are finely tuned, with sharp vision, hearing, and smell.

Apart from humans, it has few natural predators, but sometimes cougars and gray wolves hunt it. When food is scarce, cannibalism occurs. Its sounds, ranging from growls to chirps, often resemble those of a domestic cat, but many say it can sound like a child or woman screaming.

7.) The Canada Lynx is a Good Swimmer and Climber but Hunts on the Ground

Native to northern North America, the Canada lynx has paw pads up to 10 cm wide, allowing it to bear twice the weight before sinking into snow compared to the red lynx. Its fangs are highly sensitive, enabling it to feel exactly where it bites its prey. It also has four carnassial teeth, requiring it to turn its head sideways to use them.

Its primary prey is the snowshoe hare, which is active at dusk and night, making the Canada lynx nocturnal too, although it has been observed hunting during the day. It swims well and climbs trees but only hunts on the ground. Its primary senses for hunting are hearing and sight. When prey is scarce, it may hunt in groups.

8.) The Canada and Red Lynxes are Easy to Distinguish

Although the two species share many external similarities, one distinguishing feature easily identifies the Canada lynx: its short tail is always completely black-tipped, while the red lynx has a white ring above the black tip.

The Canada lynx also has a rounder pupil, which is rare among felines, one example being the manul. When you look closely at these two animals, they bear a surprising resemblance, especially in the face. It turns out that lynxes are quite vocal creatures: they meow, growl, and even purr, just like our house cats.

Which species fascinates you the most?