2 days ago
Wildwood Zoo in Marshfield welcomes Canadian lynx cub named Odin
MARSHFIELD − Wildwood Zoo has welcomed a new resident, a 3-month-old male Canadian lynx named Odin.
Odin came from a USDA-accredited zoo and is adapting well to his new environment, according to a community announcement. He is gaining weight and thriving in the Wildcat Building.
The addition of Odin highlights Wildwood Zoo's commitment to conservation and education. The Canadian lynx is a secretive feline native to northern forests and was once more common in Wisconsin's northern counties. Sightings of lynx in the state are rare, but they have been documented during severe winters.
Historically, lynx were present in northern Wisconsin when snow conditions and forest cover supported their primary prey, snowshoe hares. As forests became fragmented and snowshoe hare populations declined, lynx became less common. Increased competition from bobcats, which are well-established throughout the state, also limited lynx presence.
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The young lynx is expected to be introduced to Elsa, the resident bobcat, in the coming months. Lynx and bobcats are distinct species with different behaviors and traits, but they share similarities as wildcats. Wildwood Zoo has a history of housing these species together, and the companionship between Odin and Elsa is expected to enrich their lives.
Visitors can look forward to seeing Odin in the Wildcat Building soon. Zookeepers are focused on his acclimation, health and enrichment to ensure he is confident and comfortable before meeting Elsa.
This story was created by reporter Nida Tazeen, ntazeen@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at
This article originally appeared on Marshfield News-Herald: Canadian lynx cub finds new home at Wildwood Zoo in Marshfield
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