Endangered Canada Lynx Spotted in Vermont for the First Time Since 2018

A rare sighting of the endangered Canada lynx was reported in Vermont‘s Rutland County earlier this month. This marks the first sighting of the species in Vermont since 2018, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department (FWD).

On August 17, video footage captured by various members of the public showed a male lynx walking along the edge of a road. Observers noted that the animal appeared to be thin but was calm in the presence of passing cars.

Brehan Furfey, a wildlife biologist with the Vermont FWD, explained that the calm behavior of the lynx is typical for an individual that is dispersing. Dispersal is a natural behavior where the lynx searches for a suitable territory while avoiding competition from other predators, such as bobcats and fishers.

Furfey emphasized the significance of this sighting, noting that Canada lynx are endangered in Vermont and threatened nationwide. He highlighted the fact that the lynx was spotted in Rutland County, which is considerably south of most previously confirmed lynx sightings in Vermont.

Historically, Vermont is located at the southernmost edge of the Canada lynx’s range, with the Northeast Kingdom providing the most adequate climate and habitat. The lynx relies heavily on snowshoe hares for sustenance, and both species thrive in environments with young forest habitats and reliable snow cover.

According to Furfey, the area where the lynx was observed does not typically support a large population of snowshoe hares, making this sighting even more extraordinary. Since 2016, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife has received over 160 reports of lynx sightings, yet only seven have been officially confirmed, the latest being in Jericho in 2018.

Furfey encouraged anyone who thinks they have spotted a lynx to document their sighting. He suggested taking a photo or video and submitting it to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. He noted that while most photographs received are of bobcats, there remains the possibility of more sightings of Canada lynx.

The Canada lynx is distinguished by its grizzled gray fur, large paws, long hind legs, and notable ear tufts. These mid-sized carnivores can weigh up to 30 pounds and share similarities in size and appearance with bobcats. In the United States, Canada lynx are primarily found in regions like northern Maine, northern New Hampshire, and various locations in the Rocky Mountain states.