Dynamics of an Exploited Canada Lynx Population in Ontario

Abstract

Population structure, mortality, productivity, and condition of lynx (Felis lynx) from zones of distinctly different harvest density and forest type in northeastern Ontario were contrasted. These population parameters were remarkably consistent and showed little variation across the 107,000-km2 study area. Productivity was high; 33% of kits and nearly all yearling and adult females bred, and mean litter size was 4.18. The mean rate of trapping mortality over several years was 46 .+-. 26% for males, 28 .+-. 17% for females, and 38% overall. Trapping accounted for nearly all mortality experienced by the population. The population increased in face of this rate of harvest. Trapping mortality appeared uniform across the study area. The data suggest that population density of lynx is lower in boreal coniferous forest than in boreal mixed-wood forest.