Lynx

Family: Felidae
Order: Carnivora
Species: Lynx canadensis (Canada lynx)

The Canada lynx is on the U.S. Endangered Species List and is classified as threatened in the lower 48 where it was always rare because its primary prey, the snowshoe hare, is mostly found in Canada and Alaska.

It is light gray, with scattered brown to black hair, cinnamon-colored underparts, and short tails. Males are larger than females, with weights ranging from 11 to 40 pounds. It is found in Alaska, northern states, parts of the Rocky Mountains, and New England, living in coniferous forests, bogs, and swamps. During the day, the Canada lynx rests in cover. It climbs trees and often leaps down onto prey including snowshoe hares, birds, and voles. It will also eat larger dead animals, or take weakened deer, caribou, or sheep. It poses little threat to humans or domestic animals. Wolves and mountain lions will prey on Canada lynx.

The Canada lynx breed in March or April, producing one litter of 3 to 4 young. Avoid placing sets that might attract lynx. Trapped lynx that are uninjured must be released immediately, and the incident must be reported to a Montana FWP warden or biologist within 24 hours of release.

Lynx Protection Zones: Special regulations exist on public lands in areas identified as “Lynx Protection Zones” to protect lynx and help trappers avoid accidentally taking lynx in Montana.