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What other animals do Canada lynx eat when snowshoe hare numbers are low?
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lynx
Also known as the Spanish lynx or the Pardel lynx, the species bears a strong resemblance to the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), but it may be distinguished by its smaller size; short, dark-tipped tail; and the presence of long, white, beardlike fur under its chin.
When snowshoe hare populations decline, the Canada lynx shifts its diet to a variety of other food sources to meet its energy requirements.12
These alternative prey include:
- Birds: Such as ruffed grouse, ducks, sparrows, and ptarmigans.2
- Smaller mammals: Including squirrels (primarily red squirrels), mice, shrews, voles, porcupines, beavers, and muskrats.2
- Larger animals: Including white-tailed deer, reindeer, mule deer, Dall’s sheep, and even carnivores like red foxes, ermines, and weasels.2
- Domesticated animals and carrion: The lynx may occasionally hunt cats, dogs, chickens, and cattle, or feed on carrion when food is scarce.2