A Manitoba lynx that was rescued near Swan River has been given a new diagnosis in Ontario. Lumi the lynx was discovered at the end of August, with an injured eye and surrounded by dogs, leading rescuers to believe her mother may have been injured or killed. The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chênes, located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Winnipeg, took in the lynx. They found that due to permanent eye damage, Lumi could not be released back into the wild.
In October, Lumi experienced severe seizures, prompting concern for her well-being, according to Zoe Nakata, the executive director of Wildlife Haven. Despite being endeared to the staff, the seizures posed a threat to Lumi’s health. To address this, the team medicated Lumi to manage the seizures but lacked a precise understanding of the cause. Consequently, they decided to conduct an MRI and a comprehensive neurology assessment, a unique procedure for a lynx, as noted by Nakata.
Accompanied by Nakata and another staff member, Lumi was flown to Guelph, Ontario, for tests at the end of January, with assistance from the National Wildlife Centre and the Ontario Veterinary College. The examinations revealed that Lumi’s seizures were likely triggered by trauma-induced epilepsy, stemming from a brain injury sustained during the eye incident. This condition is not expected to worsen, which is a positive outcome.
Lumi will require lifelong medication to manage the seizures, but the identified cause enables the team to provide more effective care. Sherri Cox, the director of the National Wildlife Centre, described Lumi as a cooperative patient and emphasized the importance of the diagnosis for her treatment. The trip incurred costs of around $10,000, covered by generous donors, as mentioned by Nakata.
Following the assessments, it was determined that Lumi will eventually be relocated to the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg. Despite the delay caused by her seizures, the plan for her permanent residence at the zoo remains unchanged. Staff have made adjustments to Lumi’s enclosure, providing additional perches for her enjoyment, as she is fond of climbing and jumping. Nakata expressed gratitude for being part of Lumi’s journey and praised the lynx’s stable and content demeanor.