Records of Canada Lynx, Lynx canadensis, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, 1940-1997

Abstract

We compiled 62 records of Lynx occurrence in Michigan's Upper Peninsula from 1940-1997. Thirty-nine of the Lynx records were verified by biologists. The last specimen was reported in 1983 and the last verified track was found in 1996. Over 50% of Lynx occurrences were reported in the 1960s. These occurrences appear to be the result of Lynx dispersing from Canada after a population irruption. Extensive track count surveys for Gray Wolves (Canis lupus) and other furbearers have yielded no evidence of Lynx. We conclude that Lynx are absent or extremely rare at this time and found no evidence that supports the existence of a resident population.