Baby lynx admitted to Manitoba animal hospital

Executive director Zoe Nakata tells the story behind the baby lynx admitted to Wildlife Haven and shares what kind of care she will need.

A Manitoba-based animal hospital is providing life-saving care to a baby lynx who lost her mom in a dog attack.

Last weekend, the young lynx was rescued and brought to the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre after the mother lynx was killed near Swan River, Man.

The tiny lynx, who’s believed to be about 20 weeks old, still has a long road to recovery with an eye injury that requires surgery. She will also need specialized nutrition and support to ensure she grows up to be healthy and strong.

“We’re so excited that she’s got a pretty optimistic prognosis,” said Wildlife Haven executive director Zoe Nakata in an interview with CTV Morning Live on Friday.

Nakata noted this is the Wildlife Haven’s first-ever baby lynx patient, adding that the team is happy to be part of her care and recovery.

She said the little one was timid at first but is growing stronger and more curious each day.

“Wild kittens and domestic kittens, they’re very curious creatures,” she said.

“They like to play; that’s how they develop their natural instincts, so we’re trying to provide her with all sorts of toys and enrichment.”

Nakata said it’s far too soon for the baby lynx to go out and fend for herself in nature, which is why she will be staying at the facility until at least the spring.

To maintain her months of care, Wildlife Haven is now reaching out to the community for donations and support.

“Our role is to facilitate her release back to the wild,” Nakata said. “But she’s certainly stolen our [hearts].”

More information on how you can help is available online.

• With files from CTV’s Rachel Lagacé