This is the first of only five field studies of lynx conducted in the conterminous United States (not including a sixth study currently underway in the Swan Valley of Montana).

Abstract

"Movements of two Lynx (Lynx canadensis) were monitored by radio telemetry: an adult male for 7 1/2 mo from March to October and an adult female during January. Home range area for the male, determined from 21 radio locations, was 36 km2. Most locations were in densely stocked stands of Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta) resulting from the 1910 fires. Snowshoe Hares (Lepus americanus), their principle prey, were also most abundant in these stands."

Results and Discussion

"No locations occurred in open grassland or semi-open areas, 90% were in densely stocked stands, and 10% in medium-stocked stands." (442)

"The estimated home range size for the maile was 36 km2. This figure is similar to that found in other studies." (442)

"Our data suggest that Lynx concentrate activity in areas of high Showshoe Hare activity, particularly in young dense stands of Lodgepole Pine."