Bobcat vs. Lynx
Developing wildlife identification skills is a basic requirement for hunters and trappers. Knowing the key characteristics of animals will help you distinguish between similar species and between the male and female of the same species.
The table outlines the distinguishing features between bobcats and lynx.
| Feature | Bobcat | Lynx |
|---|---|---|
| Coloration | Highly variable, range silver to reddish brown; spotting on belly and legs | Gray to light brown; spots light or absent |
| Tail | Tip black on top only, light underneath, usually barred on top | Entire tip black, no barring |
| Feet | Proportional to size of animal | Appear too large for size of the animal |
| Appearance | Shoulders and hips often on same plane; in winter, stocky appearance when belly fur is long | Hind legs disproportionately long, resulting in stooped appearance |
Note: Lynx tracks are similar in size to cougar. Pad impressions are less distinct on lynx due to heavy fur on feet.
Bobcat
Lynx (Courtesy of CPW/Joe Lewandowski)