A Canada lynx, an endangered species in Vermont, has been sighted in the state for the first time since 2018, marking a significant occurrence as it was spotted farther south than previous confirmed sightings. The lynx was observed by a resident of Shrewsbury as he was driving home on a rural road on Saturday evening. Returning with his cell phone, he managed to capture a video of the majestic animal, sharing the encounter on Wednesday.
Brehan Furfey, a wildlife biologist and furbearer project leader at the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, expressed excitement over the recent sighting. She noted that it is particularly significant as the lynx was seen in Rutland County, which is considerably south compared to most documented lynx sightings in Vermont. Canada lynx are endangered within the state and nationally considered threatened, making any confirmed sightings crucial.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicates that resident breeding populations of Canada lynx are in various northern regions across the country. These animals are similar in appearance to bobcats but are distinguished by their long black ear tufts and short, black-tipped tails. Known for their large paws and long hind legs, Canada lynx are well-equipped for hunting snowshoe hare in snowy environments.
Vermont, located at the southernmost boundary of the Canada lynx’s range, typically sees confirmed lynx sightings in northeastern parts of the state due to optimal climate, habitat, and food sources for the species. Both lynx and snowshoe hares depend on young forest habitats and reliable snowpack to flourish. Furfey speculates that the recent lynx sighting may have been a male lynx passing through the area in search of a territory, a behavior known as “dispersing” which allows lynx to cover long distances swiftly.
Since 2016, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has received over 160 reports of lynx sightings, with only seven being confirmed. The most credible sighting prior to the recent one was in Jericho back in 2018.
