Canadian scientists have recorded the first-ever cell phone footage of a melanistic Canada Lynx, a rare genetic variant
with a striking dark coat. Normally, Canada Lynx have gray or reddish-brown fur, making this discovery a significant surprise for researchers.
Rare Canada Lynx captured on video sitting, Photo Credit: The Weather Channel
Melanism, the result of excess dark pigmentation, is unprecedented in this species and could disadvantage the
lynx in snowy habitats where camouflage is key to hunting. Scientists are now exploring possible links
between melanism and climate change, referencing a 2014 study that suggested warming temperatures may encourage darker coats in some animals.
