Project Lynx BE

Canada lynx are elusive cats of the northern boreal forests. The word lynx means "to shine," and may refer to their powerful eyes. Allegedly, a lynx can spot a snowshoe hare 1,000 feet away. Few people are fortunate enough to see a lynx in the wild, but many are captivated by the allure of this secretive cat.

The lynx' manner is one of independence, confidence, and complacency. He walks through the woods with dignity, looking neither right nor left. Of course he is not as oblivious as he appears to be. He may even stop to watch you, but only briefly, and then he continues sedately on his way.

-- Adolph Murie

Behavioral endocrinology (B.E.) is the study of how hormones and behavior interact. The goal of this project is to develop a better understanding of the behavioral endocrinology of stress and reproduction in Canada lynx so that we may improve lynx management and conservation.

Specific objectives of this study are:

1) Describe normative patterns of hormone expression associated with female reproduction, male reproduction, and stress in Canada lynx.

2) Examine individual variation in behavior and physiology to see if lynx have distinct coping strategies (i.e. behavioral types or “personalities”).

3) Monitor individual changes in physiology and behavior after reintroduction to determine what factors may contribute to the success or failure of a reintroduction effort.

Website created and maintained by Kerry Fanson.

Last updated 08/20/2008.