HOWELL, Mich. (WTHR) – The Department of Natural Resources in Michigan got a big surprise when they discovered a rare animal in the state.
On March 18, the Michigan DNR transported a Canada lynx that was trapped in Harbor Beach Sunday.
According to the Howell Nature Center and the Michigan DNR, "the Canada lynx is classified as a threatened species in Michigan with only rare sightings occurring in the last 40 years."
This is the first live lynx the Michigan DNR has ever captured.
The lynx is now staying at the Howell Nature Center to be observed for possible injuries after being trapped in a leg-hold trap.
The DNR and the Nature Center say they aren't sure if the lynx was wild or an illegal pet, but capturing it was the best way to find out what to do with it.
As of Tuesday, the nature center reported that the lynx is doing well in their care.
The lynx will be transported to the Detroit Zoological Society for an evaluation to determine if the animal is safe to be released back into the wild.
