Linking Up Our Canada Lynx

Big news in Wild Canada – our Canada lynx are linking up!

Recently, our dedicated Animal Care, Health & Welfare (ACHW) team facilitated introductions between our two Canada lynx, female ‘Kaya’ and male ‘Bebe’. Kaya and Bebe previously lived together before joining our zoo family and have even successfully bred! They are part of a Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding recommendation and earlier in March, they came together for the first time since their arrival at the zoo.

At the heart of every introduction is animal welfare and well-being. Our team carefully plans each step to ensure both Kaya and Bebe feel safe, comfortable, and in control of their environment, supporting species-appropriate behaviours, including breeding, alongside positive physical and behavioural health outcomes.

How do you introduce lynx? Even though the two have lived together before, introductions are still managed with great sensitivity. Before Kaya and Bebe started sharing a habitat, our ACHW team provided them with plenty of time to become comfortable with their habitat and back-of-house spaces, reducing stress and supporting confidence in their surroundings. There are two sides to the lynx habitat, offering opportunities for them to see each other, with concealed areas on both sides that give them choice and the ability to move away—an important part of maintaining well-being.

Leading up to breeding season, the two had opportunities to explore each other’s habitats, allowing for natural behaviours such as scent marking to indicate interest and receptivity. This gradual process supports their behavioural needs and ensures interactions happen at their pace. A mesh door gave the lynx a comfortable space to sit closely together without physical contact, allowing our teams to closely monitor behaviour, assess comfort levels, and ensure both animals were showing positive signs before proceeding.

After a few days getting accustomed to living together, we’re pleased to share that the two are now in full courtship and will remain together for a few weeks based on their behaviour. Throughout this time, their welfare continues to guide every decision, with ongoing monitoring to ensure both Kaya and Bebe are comfortable and thriving.