Scientific Name:       
Lynx lynx wrangeli
Class:                        
Mammalia
Order:                        
Carnivora
Family:                       
Felidae
Feeding Type:          
Carnivorous
Range:                       
Northern and Central Asia to Siberia. Most of Canada, Alaska and Northern US
Habitat:                      
Dense coniferous forests and mixed woodlands. Treeless tundra. Rocky, mountainous regions with cover
Diet in the Wild:        
Hares, rabbits, rodents, birds, deer, carrion, fish
Diet at the Zoo:         
Nebraska feline diet
Longevity:                  
15 years
Description:
The lynx has distinctive ear tufts and a short tail. Its coat is brownish-gray, dense and long.  Furry, broad and long feet acts like snowshoes for the lynx.  Its eyes are forward facing for excellent binocular vision.
Adaptation/Behavior:
The lynx is a solitary and agile predator.  It is mainly nocturnal and maintains a 120 square mile hunting range. The function of its ear tufts is unclear.  Some suggest that it may enhance hearing, while others suggest that it may help the lynx identify other members of its species. 
Courtship/Breeding:
Males and females come together only during the mating season. Gestation is 9 to 10 weeks and a litter is usually 2 to 3 young. The female raises the young alone. Kittens are born naked and blind, and their eyes open after 17 days.
Conservation:
In the 19^th century, the lynx was wiped out from much of Europe because it was hunted for its fur and it preyed on domestic animals.  In North America, it suffered a similar fate. However, with stronger legislation to help protect them, the lynx is making a comeback.  It is today at low risk, but is still under threat from hunters and habitat loss.