The Turkestan Lynx in the Chatkal Range, Western Tien Shan, Uzbekistan

New data reveals the presence and ecological preferences of the endangered Turkestan lynx (Lynx lynx isabellinus) in the Chatkal Biosphere Reserve, Uzbekistan. Using camera traps, researchers confirmed its habitat range across diverse biotopes from 1300 to 3550 meters above sea level, with peak activity in arid and rocky slopes at 2000–2300 meters. The study also identified seasonal and diurnal activity patterns, suggesting a diet primarily composed of chukar partridges (Alectoris chukar) and mountain rodents. Camera traps proved highly effective for detecting this elusive species, offering a robust method for monitoring vertebrate populations in protected areas like the Chatkal Reserve. This research lays groundwork for conservation strategies to protect the Turkestan lynx and its habitat.

Bykova, E. A., Golovtsov, D. E., & Esipov, A. V. (2018). The Turkestan Lynx in the Chatkal Range, Western Tien Shan, Uzbekistan. Tyumen State University Herald. Natural Resource Use and Ecology, 4(2), 92–107. https://doi.org/10.21684/2411-7927-2018-4-2-92-107