Lynx
The animal I decided to research is the Lynx (Lynx canadensis). The current status of this animal is considered endangered in Washington as of 2000 according to the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). On a federal level the Lynx is only considered “threatened”. Currently the Lynx is 1 of 3 of the rarest wild cats in Washington. The Lynx’s numbers currently dwindle under 100 in total recorded population.
About the Lynx:
Lynxes are also solitary animals so they do not hunt in packs or have families which causes a slow recovery. Lynxes are also extremely territorial and their homes can cover 11-300 square kilometers. In addition to being solitary they try to avoid humans, because of this the population of the Lynx is reduced even more with the expansion of cities in Washington. Lynxes like to mate in the early spring or late winter; Two months after females will give birth to a litter of 1-4 kittens. The lifespan of a Lynx can last up to 14.5 years and sexual maturity can be reached within 10 months.
Problems facing the Lynx:
The main threats to Lynx are of course humans, because everything is scared of us, and wildfires. Wildfires have drastically reduced areas for Lynxes to inhabit. In addition, people hunted Lynx for their fur until about 1991 when they became protected. Climate change is extremely influential on the population of the Lynx. With the reduction of boreal forests and shorter winter, it will drastically cut down the population of the Lynx due to habitat loss. This species is so vulnerable to change because they are highly dependant on the cold and snowy areas where most other predators cannot live. Other areas where there is more competition or different climates prevent the Lynx from surviving.
Solutions for the Lynx:
In 1991 Washington made the commercial hunting of Lynxes illegal and in 2000-2001 Lynx were considered federally protected/endangered. Several hunting traps have been outlawed as well in Washington to prevent the accidental trapping and deaths of the Lynx. In addition Washington has given Lynx habitats protection against harassment such as deforestation.
Why the Lynx:
I’ve always loved cats and have grown up with them since I was a child. I currently have 1 cat, her brother passed away 2 years ago. I always knew wild cats have been endangered but I never knew how small some of their numbers have become. I hope to one day see the restoration of a large majority of all animals including cats.
Sources:
https://www.treehugger.com/natural-sciences/omg-kittens-colorado-biologists-discover-litter-of-lynx-kittens.html
Side note: I have no idea why there is a white background, nothing i do gets rid of it.
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