Global warming threatens Canada Lynx kittens.

The Canada lynx, often known as the Ghosts of the North, can be found thriving in the dense forests of Canada down to some of the northern states of the USA such as Maine, Montana, Washington, Oregon and Wyoming. Smaller populations are known to be living in other states, however in the year 2000 they were officially listed as a threatened species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service due to poaching for fur.

Not to be confused with the similar looking Bobcat, these leggy felines are perfectly adapted for the snowy habitats in which they live, with their giant paws giving them the perfect advantage over other predators (Bobcats and Coyotes) when it comes to hunting the snowshoe hare that makes up the majority of their diet. They also have noticeable ear tufts that aid in hearing and are typically grey in colour compared to the spotted coat of the Bobcat.

Photo credit: kdee64 (Keith Williams) on Flickr

Lynx kittens usually spend the first five weeks of their lives in a cosy den that the mother scopes out before she gives birth. They then follow her every move in order to learn the vital hunting skills they will need to survive by themselves. By 7-9 months of age they are able to hunt by themselves and are almost ready to leave home. Lynx are usually solitary animals but have been known to travel in small groups at times.

The habitats where these Lynx are found are known to have up to 2.7m of snowfall annually and this is just how the Canada Lynx likes it. However, the inevitable climate change is already decreasing snow fall and destroying the habitats that these cats depend on for survival.

New kittens may have a struggle on their hands (or paws) as this species is particularly sensitive to climate change. They rely so much on their physical adaptations to give them an advantage when hunting that, without the snowy landscapes, their physical attributes will be useless.

This may lead to less successful hunting and may cause the species to suffer further.