A Manitoba lynx that was rescued and brought to Ontario has been given a new diagnosis. Lumi, the lynx, was discovered near Swan River in late August, injured and surrounded by dogs, indicating potential harm to her mother. The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chênes, located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Winnipeg, took in the lynx and found significant eye damage that prevented her release back into the wild.
In October, Lumi’s condition worsened as she began experiencing severe seizures, posing a threat to her well-being, according to Zoe Nakata, the executive director of Wildlife Haven. Despite forming a strong bond with the staff, the seizures necessitated urgent medical attention. To address this, Lumi underwent an MRI and a comprehensive neurology assessment, a unique procedure for a lynx, requiring her transfer to Guelph, Ontario, with Nakata and another staff member.
Results from the tests suggested that Lumi’s seizures were likely triggered by trauma-induced epilepsy, stemming from a brain injury sustained during the eye incident. While Lumi will need lifelong medication to manage the seizures, knowing the underlying cause allows for more effective care, Nakata explained. The expenses for Lumi’s specialized treatment, amounting to around $10,000, were covered by generous donors.
Despite the challenges, Lumi has now settled comfortably in her enclosure at the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre. Plans are in place to eventually relocate her to the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg once her care plan is finalized. The staff have ensured her enclosure is enriched with additional perches, catering to Lumi’s climbing and jumping tendencies. The ultimate goal is to provide a stable and stress-free environment for the lynx in her permanent home.