The Spatial Ecology of Lynx canadensis

Lynx canadensis is a mammalian carnivore with a distribution spreading from Alaska to Newfoundland to Colorado. The latitudinal and anthropogenic alterations over this range provide many variations in lynx habitat, food source, and population characteristics. Studies from one part of the range do not necessarily extrapolate to another causing a widespread lack of knowledge regarding lynx requirements. This is especially pertinent to lynx in the contiguous United States where lynx were listed as threatened in 2000 according to the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973. To this end, I have analyzed research, focusing on those that occur in the lower half of lynx range, in order to determine lynx habits and the degree to which outside forces act upon them. Where possible, I have taken aspects from this research and applied it to lynx populations in Colorado. The result is a better understanding of lynx needs and preferences within the state, and a realization of where research gaps exist