British Columbia CORE Hunting Practice Exam

Which animal is larger, the bobcat or the lynx?

1. The bobcat

2. The lynx

3. They are the same size

4. Neither, both are medium-sized animals

The correct answer is: The lynx

The lynx is indeed larger than the bobcat. On average, lynx can weigh between 18 to 30 pounds and have a body length of about 2 to 3.5 feet, excluding the tail, which can add another 4 to 7 inches. Their size is also accompanied by long legs and large paws, which help them navigate snowy habitats effectively. In comparison, bobcats are smaller, typically weighing between 11 to 30 pounds with a body length of about 1.5 to 2.5 feet. While some individuals may approach the upper weight limit of a lynx, the overall physical dimensions, including height and build, still favor the lynx as the larger of the two species. Understanding the differences in size and physical characteristics is vital, especially for identification in the wild, as both animals have different habitats and behaviors. The distinction in size plays a role in their hunting strategies and prey selection, as the larger lynx primarily hunts snowshoe hares, which can influence the ecological balance in their habitats.