01

Status

Category III. A rare lynx subspecies. Listed in the Red Books of Central Asian countries and the IUCN Red List.

02

Taxonomic significance

One of three lynx subspecies in Kazakhstan and one of eight in the CIS countries.

03

Distribution

The range covers the mountains of Central Asia. In Kazakhstan, it inhabits the Tien Shan, Dzungarian Alatau, Tarbagatai, and Saur mountains.

04

Habitat

Coniferous and deciduous forests, shrublands in the forest and subalpine belts.

05

Population

In the 19th century, the population was high, but by the mid-20th century, it had sharply declined. Currently, 100-130 lynxes inhabit Northern Tien Shan, 250-300 in Dzungarian Alatau, and 4-5 in Aksu-Zhabagly.

06

Main threats

Poaching, food scarcity.

07

Biology

Sedentary lifestyle, but during snowy winters and food shortages, it migrates. Active at dusk and night. The mating season occurs in February-March, with a gestation period of 67-74 days. Primary diet includes hares, rodents, roe deer, piglets, and mountain goat kids, with birds and domestic animals as secondary prey. Main predators and competitors are wolves and snow leopards.

08

Conservation measures

Listed in Appendix II of CITES. Protected in Kazakhstan's reserves and national parks.

09

Necessary actions

Combat poaching, enhance protection, create a reserve in Dzungarian Alatau.