While the bobcat is a common wild cat in Wisconsin, questions often arise about the presence of its northern relative, the Canada lynx. These two feline species share certain resemblances, leading to occasional misidentification in the wild. Understanding the current status of lynx in Wisconsin, their historical presence, and the distinct characteristics that separate them from bobcats can clarify their roles in the state’s ecosystem.
Current Status of Lynx in Wisconsin
Canada lynx are rarely found in Wisconsin and are typically considered transient visitors rather than a resident breeding population. Biologists do not believe that a stable breeding population of lynx exists within the state. Any sightings are usually of individuals dispersing from established populations further north, such as those in Minnesota or Canada. These dispersal events often coincide with the cyclical crashes of snowshoe hare populations in their primary Canadian habitats, forcing lynx to wander in search of food.
Although Canada lynx were removed from Wisconsin’s state endangered and threatened species list in 1997 due to the lack of evidence for a breeding population, they remain a protected wild animal within the state. Federally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Canada lynx as a threatened species across the contiguous United States in 2000. This designation provides legal protections for the species, even when individuals temporarily move into areas like Wisconsin.
Historical Presence and Decline
Canada lynx were never abundant in Wisconsin. While there might have been a small breeding population historically, their numbers began to decline significantly due to various human-induced factors. Trapping for their valuable fur played a role in their reduction, with a state-financed bounty on lynx in Wisconsin existing from 1865 through 1957.
Habitat destruction also contributed to their decline, as logging and settlement fragmented the northern forests that lynx inhabit. Clear-cutting and the establishment of red pine plantations created environments unsuitable for lynx. By the early 1900s, lynx were no longer breeding in Wisconsin. Most confirmed lynx occurrences since then have been transient individuals.
Distinguishing Lynx from Bobcat
Both Canada lynx and bobcats belong to the same Lynx genus, leading to their similar appearances, including short, “bobbed” tails and ear tufts. However, several distinct physical features can help differentiate between these two elusive wild cats. Lynx possess notably larger paws, which act like natural snowshoes, allowing them to traverse deep snow more easily; these paws also have fur on their soles for added traction. In contrast, bobcats have smaller, more compact paws not adapted for extensive snow travel.
Another distinguishing characteristic lies in their ear tufts and tails. Canada lynx have longer, more prominent ear tufts, which can extend nearly an inch in length. Their short tail is entirely black at the tip. Bobcats, while also possessing ear tufts, have shorter ones, and their tails are typically banded with black stripes, featuring a black top and white underside at the tip. Additionally, lynx generally have longer legs, particularly their hind legs, which can make them appear somewhat stooped, and their coats tend to be grayer with less distinct spotting compared to the reddish-brown, more spotted coats of bobcats. Bobcats are the more common wild cat species encountered in Wisconsin, with the northern Wisconsin population estimated around 3,800 in fall 2020.