A medium-sized wild cat native to the boreal forests of North America, characterized by its dense fur, tufted ears, and specialized predatory adaptations for hunting snowshoe hares.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Boreal and mixed coniferous forests of Canada and northern United States, typically at elevations between 500-2,000 meters, with dense forest cover and significant snowshoe hare populations
Ecological Role
Keystone predator in boreal ecosystems, regulating snowshoe hare populations and maintaining forest ecosystem balance; critical to maintaining biodiversity in northern forest habitats
Morphology
SKIN COATThick, dense grayish-brown winter fur; seasonal color variation for camouflage; fur becomes lighter in winter
LIMBS WINGSPowerful, relatively long legs with large, furry paws acting as natural snowshoes; retractable claws for hunting and climbing
HEAD SENSORYLarge, pointed ears with black tufts; exceptional hearing; large, forward-facing eyes with excellent night vision
BODY STRUCTURECompact, muscular body; body length 80-100 cm; weight 8-11 kg; short tail approximately 10-15 cm
