Eurasian Lynx
VU

Eurasian Lynx

Lynx lynx

UnknownLCEULCEU

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eurasian_lynx

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Eurasian Lynx faces significant pressure from habitat fragmentation and human encroachment across its range, with large-scale deforestation and agricultural expansion reducing available prey and suitable denning sites. Illegal hunting and poaching for fur and body parts remains a persistent threat, particularly in Central Asian populations. Road mortality has emerged as an increasing concern in European populations as transportation networks expand through lynx territories.

Threat summary

Habitat

Eurasian Lynx inhabit boreal and montane forests, preferring dense coniferous and mixed woodlands with adequate cover for stalking prey. They also occupy scrubland, rocky areas, and alpine meadows up to 5,500 meters elevation, requiring territories of 20-400 square kilometers depending on prey density.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Eurasian Lynx classified as Vulnerable?
Eurasian Lynx is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Eurasian Lynx faces significant pressure from habitat fragmentation and human encroachment across its range, with large-scale deforestation and agricultural expansion reducing available prey and suitable denning sites. Illegal hunting and poaching for fur and body parts remains a persistent threat, particularly in Central Asian populations. Road mortality has emerged as an increasing concern in European populations as transportation networks expand through lynx territories.
Where does Eurasian Lynx live?
Eurasian Lynx occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Eurasian Lynx?
The main threats to Eurasian Lynx are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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