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Why do lynx hide uneaten prey and return to it later?

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Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) — 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.

Lynx, like many other felines, operate on a feast-or-famine routine. After an initial period of gorging on a kill, they hide the remaining portions of the carcass—such as by placing it under a bush—to protect it and return to it periodically to consume the rest.12

This behavior, known as food caching, allows the animal to secure a food source for later use, ensuring they have access to sustenance over several days rather than consuming the entire kill at once.12