Scientific Name:
Lynx lynx
Distribution
Europe to Siberia, N and C Asia
Diet:
Carnivore. Small ungulates like roe deer, goats and sheep. Sometimes larger prey such as red deer or wild boar. Also smaller prey such as hares or grouse.
Facts
Habitat: Deciduous, mixed and coniferous forests
Dimensions: 80-110cm
Weight: 15-29kg
Gestation: 68-72 days, 1-4 young
Lifespan: 17
Social structure: Solitary, females with their young.
Estimated population in the wild: σταθερός/stable
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Threats: Illegal skin trade, habitat loss and prey base depletion.
Did you know that:
- The name lynx is thought to stem from Lynceus in Greek mythology who was said to be so sharp sighted that he could see through the earth. This is in reference to the keen eyesight of lynxes.
- Each animal kills about 50-70 ungulates per year.
- In Greece the species is considered Critically Endangered and there are doubts as to whether it maintains a reproductive population.