The Canada lynx is a medium-sized wild cat whose population and survival are linked to its main prey: the snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus). Lynx numbers naturally rise and fall along with snowshoe hare populations.
Physical Description
Similar in size and appearance to a bobcat. Lynx have distinctive long, thin tufts of fur on the tips of their ears and short, black-tipped tails. Their fur is mostly gray-brown, often with faint spotting. Lynx feet are large and their hind legs are long in proportion with the rest of the body.
Size
On average, Canada lynx are 30 to 35 inches (75 to 90 centimeters) long and weigh around 15 to 30 pounds (6 to 14 kilograms). Males are typically a bit larger than females.
Native Habitat
This wild cat lives in the cold, northern forests of North America —a habitat known as boreal forest. In particular, the lynx favors patches of regenerating forest within older stands of trees with a mix of tree heights. These regenerating patches usually feature dense undergrowth that serves as habitat for snowshoe hares.
Lifespan
Up to 15 years in the wild. In human care, this species can live for up to 22 years.
Communication
Lynx mostly communicate with one another through scent marking, but they also will communicate using sound with a range of barks, growls, yowls, and cries.
Food/Eating Habits
Lynx primarily eat snowshoe hares but will also eat rodents, birds, squirrels, and other small mammals, particularly in summer.
Sleep Habits
Lynx are active both day and night, though they tend to be most active at dawn and dusk (crepuscular).
Social Structure
Mostly solitary.
Reproduction and Development
Mating occurs in late winter. After a gestation of about two months, females give birth to litters of one to four kittens, usually in May or June. Litter size often depends on hare abundance.
Conservation Efforts
Major threats to the Canada lynx include habitat loss and fragmentation, competition with coyotes which have encroached on some lynx habitat, and climate change which is altering the snowy ecosystems these wild cats inhabit. The Canada lynx population found in the contiguous U.S. is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, and is listed as endangered in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in Canada.
Help this Species
Practice ecotourism by being an advocate for the environment when you’re on vacation. During your travels, support, visit or volunteer with organizations that protect wildlife. Shop smart too! Avoid buying products made from animals, which could support poaching and the illegal wildlife trade.
Support organizations like the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute that research better ways to protect and care for this animal and other endangered species. Consider donating your time, money or goods.
Are you a hunter? You can be an incredible ally for conservation! Check the conservation status of the animals you hunt and use methods that don’t impact other animals.
Share the story of this animal with others. Simply raising awareness about this species can contribute to its overall protection.
Meet the Animals
The Zoo is home to three male Canada lynx: Jasper, Rocky and Yukon.
Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. (n.d.). Canada lynx. Retrieved October 17, 2025, from https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/canada-lynx
Animal News
7 Spooktacular Animal Facts for Halloween ›
Meet the Orangutans Living at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo ›
