Kolbe noted that in the Swan Valley, for example, local outdoorsmen and trappers believe that lynx have suffered a large decline in recent years, but the reason for the decline remains a mystery. I'd like to be able to tell you about what the lynx are doing up here, but I can't yet. Genetically, the lynx is closely related to the bobcat. However, the two animals differ considerably in appearance and behavior. The lynx is known for its long legs, large feet, and noticeable ear tufts, which are often more than two-inches long.
Lynx are also quiet compared to bobcats.
The study has been rewarding for Kolbe, who enjoys checking traps daily, following lynx tracks through the snow, and recording the movements of collared animals. One day he was able to observe a female cat feeding a snowshoe hare to her kittens. It was neat. Other interesting behavior that has been observed includes mountain lion predation on lynx. Two young lynx in the study area were killed by the larger cats.