Lynx populations on the rise!

The lynx is making a comeback and populations are on the rise, according to new research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

The lynx, which disappeared from Wisconsin in the early 1900s, has been slowly recolonizing the state since the late 1990s. The new study, published in the journal "Ecography", provides the first estimate of how many lynx live in Wisconsin and documents their recent colonization of northern Wisconsin.

The study found that there are now about 1,000 lynx in Wisconsin, up from a few dozen in the late 1990s. The majority of the population (about 80 percent) is concentrated in the state's North Woods.

"Our results suggest that lynx are recovering rapidly in Wisconsin and have reoccupied much of their former range," said study author Zach Peery, an assistant professor of wildlife ecology at UW-Madison. "This is great news for this beautiful cat and suggests that efforts to restore connectivity between forested habitats are working."

The lynx is a medium-sized wild cat that ranges across North America and Europe. In North America, it typically inhabits boreal forests – densely forested areas with coniferous trees such as pine, spruce and fir. Lynx are solitary predators that feed on deer, snowshoe hares and other small mammals.

The Wisconsin study was funded by the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as part of its effort to monitor and manage recovery of this threatened species. It involved capturing Lynx using traps placed along deer trails and then fitting them with GPS collars to track their movements.

Most of what we know about lynx populations comes from studies like this one – tracking animals using GPS collars allows researchers to learn a lot about their behavior and habitat preferences. This information can then be used to help guide conservation efforts.

For example, the study found that lynx prefer dense forests with thick understory cover – they use these areas for hunting prey and hiding from enemies. The data also showed that lynx prefer to stay close to forest edges, likely because this is where they find most of their prey.

These findings suggest that DNR conservation efforts aimed at creating or restoring edge habitats may be benefiting lynx populations. For example, DNR has been working with forest landowners to create or maintain extensive forest buffers along rivers and streams – an important habitat for prey species like deer and snowshoe hares.

Lynx spotted in new areas!

The lynx, a medium-sized wild cat, has been spotted in new areas recently as its populations continue to grow.

Lynx typically live in forested areas, but sightings have been reported in open landscapes as well. This adaptability is likely what has helped the species rebound from near-extinction, and could mean good news for the future of lynx conservation.

The lynx is known for its short tail, tufted ears, and distinctive markings. It feeds mainly on small mammals such as rabbits and hares, but can also take down deer if it's hungry enough.

Despite its reclusive nature, lynx are not particularly difficult to spot if you know where to look. Their tracks are large and easy to identify, and they tend to be very territorial so you're likely to see evidence of their presence even if you don't see them themselves.

With the lynx's range expanding, it's important to be aware of this beautiful but elusive animal and take steps to protect it. For more information on the lynx and how you can help conserve it, visit your local wildlife organization or national park service website.

First lynx sighting in the county in years!

This morning, a lynx was spotted by a resident in the county. This is the first sighting of a lynx in the county in years!

The lynx is a wildcat that is typically found in cold climates. The lynx is a large cat, with a body length of up to 44 inches and a tail of up to 18 inches. They weigh between 15 and 30 pounds. Lynxes have distinctive tufts of black hair on their ears and are very well adapted to life in cold climates, with wide paws that act as snowshoes and long fur that keeps them warm.

Lynxes are typically shy animals and tend to avoid humans. They are opportunistic predators, feeding on small mammals such as rabbits, hares, and squirrels, as well as birds. They also eat carrion (dead animal flesh).

It's unclear why this lynx has ventured into the county, but it's an exciting discovery for residents!

Are lynx making a comeback?

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Lynx are medium-sized wildcats that are known for their beautiful fur and spotted coats. They were once found throughout North America, but today, they are only found in a few isolated populations. There has been some talk lately about the possibility of lynx making a comeback, and a recent study by the National Wildlife Federation provides some evidence that this may be happening.

The study looked at lynx populations in Colorado and Wyoming and used remote sensing technology to estimate their numbers. The results showed that the lynx population in Colorado has increased by 36% since 2000, and the population in Wyoming has increased by 167%. This is good news for these animals, as it shows that they are beginning to rebound from the decline they experienced in the past.

There are many factors that have led to the decline of lynx populations, including deforestation, recreational hunting, and trapping. However, things may be starting to turn around for these animals thanks to conservation efforts and changing attitudes towards predators.

It will be interesting to see if this trend continues, and whether lynx will make a full recovery in the coming years. In the meantime, let's all do our part to help protect these beautiful creatures!

Lynx sightings on the rise - is climate change to blame?

Lynx are majestic predators that once roamed across most of Europe and North America. However, their populations have dwindled in recent decades due to hunting, habitat loss, and other factors.

But recent sightings of lynx in new areas suggest that their populations may be starting to rebound. And while it's tempting to credit this resurgence to conservation efforts, some experts believe that climate change may be playing a role as well.

In particular, a warming climate is thought to be making formerly inhospitable areas more hospitable to lynx, allowing them to expand their range into new areas. And as the climate continues to change, it's likely that even more areas will become suitable for these big cats.

This is good news for lynx fans, but it also raises some concerns. If lynx are expanding their range due to climate change, that means they could soon become competitors with other predators - like wolves and bears - for food and territory.

So while it's great that lynx are making a comeback, we need to make sure that we don't upset the delicate balance of nature by introducing them into too many new areas. We need to be careful not to disrupt the ecosystems where they live - and let nature take its course.