The Canada Lynx, a species native to North America, is known for its distinctive light brownish-gray fur coat. However, there have been reports of a rare variation – a black-furred Canada Lynx. Until recently, this black-colored type had never been photographed, but a lucky researcher managed to capture some remarkable images in 2022.
The incredible footage was taken by Thomas Jung, an employee of the Government of Yukon, in a rural residential neighborhood near Whitehorse, Yukon. The video shows the black Canada Lynx relaxing at a distance, seemingly unaware of its surroundings. The lynx eventually flees when a nearby dog starts barking.
Experts were thrilled to analyze the footage, but the shaky video made it challenging to identify distinguishing traits. However, Jung’s observations provided valuable insights. He noted that the lynx had a black coat with whitish-gray guard hairs throughout, as well as whitish-gray hairs on its facial ruff and other areas.
The Canada Lynx’s coat coloration is typically similar to other lynx species, with a silvery gray coat in winter and a reddish-brown coat in summer. The black Canada Lynx is an extremely rare variation, with a unique coat coloration that sets it apart.
According to Jung, variations like this are often adaptations that can be either beneficial or detrimental to the animal’s survival. While scientists have not proven whether melanism is advantageous or disadvantageous, Jung believes that the lynx’s dark coat may be maladaptive, making it stand out in the snow while hunting in winter.
The rare sighting of the black Canada Lynx has generated significant excitement, and the footage has provided valuable insights into this unique variation.
