SALISBURY Md. – The Salisbury Zoo has announced the death of Chayne, a 17 year old Canada lynx and one of the facility’s longest lived animals. Zoo officials said Chayne had been receiving long term medical care for age related conditions, including renal disease and arthritis, and that staff had monitored her closely as her health declined. According to information released by the zoo, recent adjustments were made to the lynx exhibit to help Chayne continue reaching an upper section of the habitat that she favored. Staff described her as a well known presence whose daily habits were familiar to both visitors and caretakers.
Chayne was originally raised at a facility in New York before being transferred to Pittsburgh at age 9. During her time there, she produced multiple litters, including her daughter Helga, who now resides at the Salisbury Zoo. Both animals were moved to Salisbury in 2021 as part of a cooperative program that manages Canada lynx populations in human care. Zoo officials noted that Chayne lived beyond the expected lifespan of wild Canada lynx. Her lineage now spans 19 cubs and 15 grand cubs at institutions across the country, reflecting her role in long term efforts to maintain the species.
Helga will remain on exhibit, since Canada lynx are typically solitary. Staff are monitoring her behavior and condition during the transition, and the zoo reported that future plans may include maintaining the current population or evaluating whether a mate is appropriate for her. The zoo stated that the loss of Chayne is significant for its animal care team and emphasized that continued investment in veterinary services, habitat upgrades and conservation work remains central to its mission.
Photos: Salisbury Zoo Facebook page