A group of lynx in northwestern Ontario unintentionally created a social media buzz on New Year’s Day as they crossed a road, caught on video by Constable Zack Stubbington of the Armstrong OPP during his patrol. The group consisted of an adult lynx and three kittens, totaling five animals as heard in the video. This remarkable sighting was shared widely on social media.
According to Brian McLaren, an associate professor at Lakehead University, lynx populations in Canada follow a 10-year cycle based on food availability, with higher populations and more frequent sightings during times of abundant food. Lynx kittens typically stay with their mothers for around 10 months, making it uncommon to see a second adult lynx with a family. McLaren speculated that the additional lynx in the group could be a female from a previous litter, noting that male lynx are usually solitary.
Constable Stubbington, in an interview with CBC News, expressed his surprise at the attention the video received, mentioning that his passion for the outdoors and wildlife was a significant factor in choosing a career in northern Ontario. He encouraged outdoor enthusiasts considering a career with the OPP to explore opportunities in the northern regions.