Canada Lynx at Salisbury Zoo Dies at 17

SALISBURY, Md. – The Salisbury Zoo has announced that the senior Canada Lynx, named Chayne, has passed away at the age of 17.

The Zoo says animal care staff observed gradual age-related changes in Chayne in the recent months, including renal disease and arthritis. Staff worked closely with the veterinary team to ensure her comfort and quality of life during her twilight years. The Zoo also recently implemented additional accommodations to the lynx habitat so Chayne could continue to enjoy her favorite vantage point overlooking her domain.

Chayne, and her cub Helga, joined the Salisbury Zoo in 2021 and quickly became favorites of both staff and visitors. True to her species, Zoo staff says Chayne had a cantankerous streak, yet she also displayed a spirited playfulness with her daughter that lasted even in her final days.

At 17.5 years old, Chayne surpassed the expected lifespan of her wild counterparts. Her legacy lives on through an incredible lineage of 19 cubs and 15 grand-cubs across the United States, located from Seattle to Utica and many places in between.

Canada lynx are naturally solitary, and Helga will continue to be visible on habitat during zoo hours. Animal care staff are actively monitoring her well-being to ensure she continues to thrive during this transition. The Salisbury Zoo says they will explore opportunities to continue supporting the cooperative management of this species, whether through maintaining a static population or potentially welcoming a mate for Helga in the future.