First Photographic Record of Eurasian Lynx in Sikkim, India

In a notable wildlife finding, a trail camera has recorded the first verified photograph of a Eurasian lynx in Sikkim, India. This image, captured in January 2026 on the Tso Lhamo plateau—located in Mangan district at over 17,400 feet—marks a significant moment. The Sikkim Forest Department, in collaboration with WWF-India, set up the camera traps as part of a long-term initiative focused on monitoring snow leopards and other wildlife. This sighting represents only the second confirmed photographic evidence of a Eurasian lynx in the Eastern Himalayas, a region that encompasses multiple Asian nations. Sri Udai Gurung, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) for Sikkim, commended the discovery, emphasizing the ecological importance of high-altitude rangelands and the support from the Lachen Dzumsa. The Eurasian lynx, known for its distinctive pointed ears with black tufts and short tail, thrives in cold climates but is seldom seen due to its elusive nature and sparse population. This finding highlights the critical need for continued conservation efforts in the area.