When you see a lynx, the ears have it. Thanks to its distinctive long ear tufts, the lynx is one of the easiest animals to recognize. You'll also see a thick coat, a beard, a black tail and a white throat and belly. Sure, they're easy to recognize, but they're not such a cinch to spot. You may spot them in parts of Western Montana if you're very lucky or very skillful.

Area of Distribution   Unpopulated Area

These medium-sized cats hunt mainly at night and make their home deep in coniferous forests. Their most common prey are rabbits and grouse, and in the winter they have an advantage because their large paws are extra furry. The fur acts as a natural snowshoe, keeping them from sinking into deep snow. The lynx population is determined completely by the availability of prey in an area. Kittens are usually born in late spring and stay with the mothers for the first year, nursing for six months.