LYNXES. 



437 



India, and South America. They are very characteristic of North America, where, 

 to the northwards of the Rio Grande, they are, with the exception of the puma, the 

 sole representatives of the Cat family. Their range in the New World extends 

 further to the southwards than in the Old World, as it there reaches to Southern 

 California and the Rio Grande. 



The whole of the true lynxes, whether we regard them as species or varieties, 

 agree with the caracal in the form of the skull, the number and structure of the 

 teeth, the black tufts to the ears, and the relatively long legs. They differ, 



THE NORTHERN LYNX (J nat. size). 



however, by their stouter build, by the ruff of long hair fringing the throat, and the 

 shorter tail, which is less than one-fourth the length of the head and body. They 

 are further characterised by the softness and thickness of their beautiful fur, 

 which is frequently marked with spots, and is highly valued by furriers. 



Commencing with the true northern lynx of the Old World, we 

 find that the colour of its fur varies from a pale sandy-grey, or 

 isabelline tint, to a rufous-fawn washed with grey; some European skins being 

 ferruginous red. The under-parts of the body are white. Although there is a great 

 amount of local variation with regard to the presence of spots on the winter coat, it 

 appears from the researches of Mr. Blanford that in the summer dress the fur of the 



Northern Lynx. 



