The Lynx
The Lynx – the great wildcat of the forest
The Lynx (lynx lynx) is Scandinavia’s only wildcat. It is found virtually everywhere in Norway but is seldom sighted – it is afraid of humans and can easily conceal itself.
Size and appearance
The lynx can grow to 1.5 m in length with the tail, weight up to 30 kg and live for up to 17 years. The European Lynx is yellowish-grey to reddish-brown in colour and has many different coat patterns: mainly striped, mainly spotted or no pattern. The ears have black tuffs. The tail is short and has a black tip. As with other cats, the lynx can contract its claws. It is a good climber and can jump five metres in length and two metres straight up into the air.
How does the lynx live?
The lynx’s territory is often high up in the timber line where the forest floor is dominated by underbrush, grass and moss. During the day, the lynx will usually sleep on a steep incline where it can maintain a good overview of its surroundings. As dusk approaches, it becomes active. In just one night, a male lynx will often walk further than a human would walk in the course of a whole week. It can roam areas of up to 10,000 km2. The lynx marks its territory by leaving its scent, as well as making claw marks on trees.
The lynx family
Lynx like to be on their own. The male and female only encounter each other for a short period when they are mating. From late May to early June the lynx will usually produce 2-3 cubs, which will remain with the mother during the first year of their lives. The mother will catch food for them and teach them to hunt. On some occasions, small groups of lynx will relocate and hunt together.
What does the lynx eat?
The lynx is a predator. Among other things, it eats reindeer, deer and smaller mammals such as the hare and other rodents. The lynx silently approaches its prey while keeping its body low to the ground. It then rushes forward in order to attack its prey, grabbing hold of it with its curved claws and biting into it with its long, pointed canine teeth. Its sharp carnassials (sectorial teeth) can cut through tough skin, sinew and cartilage. Even though the lynx hunts on the ground, it is also able to climb trees, as well as swim in order to catch fish.