Watch This Agile Lynx Leap Across a Frozen River to Avoid Its Chilly Waters

A recent video of a lynx (Felis lynx) jumping over a snowy river went viral. The animal’s seemingly effortless leap looks almost as if it’s in slow motion. 

The lynx slowly walked out onto a snowy branch that was resting on a frozen river. As it approached the ice, the lynx slowed down as if sensing something was off. He then stepped hesitantly onto the frozen water and, upon hearing a crack in the ice, instantly paused. The lynx then looked around as if to see where the noise came from. Eventually, he backed up onto the branch and prepared for his leap across the river. He easily made it to the other side without falling onto or breaking the ice — success!

Where Do Lynx Live?

Lynx live in Eurasia, Europe, and North America — typically inhabiting dens burrowed into ledges or rocky crevices. The Canada lynx (L canadensis) is one of the largest wild cats in the entire North American continent. They typically reside in cold climates and snowy regions. However, there are additional species of lynx in other locations (Europe and Asia), such as the bobcat (L rufus), Eurasian lynx (Lynx), and Iberian lynx (L pardinus).

The bobcat and Canada lynx are the only two species of lynx in the U.S. Additionally, this animal is considered to be “Near Threatened,” with an estimated global population of less than 50,000.

How Far Can a Lynx Jump?

Lynx can jump as far as 25 feet horizontally and 6 feet high. This is especially impressive considering their average size, ranging from 2.5 to 4.3 feet long as an adult. The wild cat uses its powerful hind legs to gain air when it leaps. 

In the video below, you can see how the lynx backs up and prepares its legs for takeoff, so to speak. He sinks down into his hind legs before bursting into the air and effortlessly landing on the side of the riverbank. 

Watch the Incredible Footage of the Lynx’s Leap Below

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Agnieszka Bacal/Shutterstock.com