The Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), also known as the Canadian lynx, is one of four extant species in the genus Lynx. This medium-sized wild cat has dense, long fur; triangular ears with black tufts; and wide, snowshoe-like paws. Its hind limbs are longer than its forelimbs, giving it a sloping back profile. Adults stand 48–56 cm (19–22 in) tall at the shoulder and weigh 5 to 17 kg (11 to 37 lb). Adept at swimming and climbing, the Canada lynx was first described scientifically in 1792 by Robert Kerr. While three subspecies have been proposed, their validity is uncertain, and the species is largely considered monotypic. The Canada lynx inhabits boreal forests across Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States.

A specialist predator, it depends heavily on the snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) for sustenance. This dependence leads to a cyclic predator-prey relationship, as lynx populations track the rise and fall of hare populations over the years in Alaska and central Canada. Lynx numbers increase with more hares available, and decrease when hares decline in an area, prompting the cats to relocate to areas with more prey and produce fewer offspring. The Canada lynx hunts primarily at twilight or night when hares are active, waiting in ambush beds or on trails before pouncing and killing its prey with a bite to the head, throat or neck. Individuals, especially of the same sex, avoid one another, maintaining intrasexual territories. Mating lasts about one month from March to early April. After a two to three month gestation, females birth a litter of one to eight kittens, weaned at 12 weeks old. Given its abundance and minimal threats, the Canada lynx is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Mating occurs in March, and 1 to 7 kittens are born 60-65 days later in May. Litters in Maine produce 1 to 4 kittens. Dens for lynx in Maine are beds under thick regenerating fir trees or elevated downed logs. The mother raises the kittens. The young leave the den area in late June or early July, staying with their mother for a full year before leaving her in late winter.

Hunting this Ghost of the North is a time consuming and difficult challenge. Trapping, calling, and using hounds are the surest methods of securing a harvest.

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