Salisbury, MD — The Salisbury Zoo is saddened to announce the passing of our eldest Canada lynx, Chayne. In recent months, animal care staff observed gradual age-related changes, including renal disease and arthritis, and worked closely with our veterinary team to ensure her comfort and quality of life during her twilight years. The Zoo also recently implemented additional accommodations to the Canada lynx habitat—such as improved access to the upper portion of the exhibit—so Chayne could continue to enjoy her favorite vantage point overlooking her domain.
Chayne was raised at Zoo New York at Thompson Park in Watertown, N.Y. She later moved to Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium at the age of 9, where she found a mate, Odr, and gave birth to several cubs, including our younger resident lynx, Helga.
Chayne and Helga joined the Salisbury Zoo in 2021 as part of the cooperative management of this species in human care and quickly became favorites of both staff and visitors. True to her species, 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—from Seattle to Utica and many places in between.
She will be remembered for the trust she built with animal care specialists, including her willingness to voluntarily enter a crate during recent habitat renovations; for her famously untidy fur and unimpressed morning stare when staff dared disturb her rest; and for her remarkable maternal instincts that played an important role in the sustainability of this species in human care.
Because Canada lynx are naturally solitary—like most feline species—Helga will continue to be visible on habitat during zoo hours. Animal care staff are actively monitoring her wellbeing to ensure she continues to thrive during this transition. The Salisbury Zoo 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.
The passing of an animal is always deeply felt by the Salisbury Zoo team. Our work in conservation and animal care is constant, and the comfort of our animals remains our highest priority. As we continue to invest in veterinary care, habitat enhancements, and the skilled staffing required to support animals throughout every stage of life, we ask the community to keep our dedicated animal care team in mind.
