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 liat. 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 
Northern Lynx. 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 
