A Manitoba lynx that was saved and taken to Ontario for treatment has received a new medical evaluation. Lumi the lynx was discovered near Swan River in late August, injured and accompanied by dogs, indicating that her mother may have been harmed or killed. Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chênes, located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Winnipeg, assumed the responsibility of caring for the lynx. Upon assessing a permanent eye injury, it was determined that Lumi could not be reintroduced into the wild.
In October, Lumi’s condition worsened when she started experiencing severe seizures, posing a threat to her well-being. Despite earning the affection of the staff, the seizures necessitated urgent attention. The Wildlife Haven team administered medication to manage the seizures but was uncertain about the cause, prompting the decision to conduct an MRI and a comprehensive neurology evaluation.
Transported to Guelph, Ont., at the end of January, Lumi underwent MRI scans, neurology assessments, and blood tests with the assistance of the National Wildlife Centre and the Ontario Veterinary College. While collaborations with external organizations are common, sending an animal out of the province for specialized examinations was unprecedented for Wildlife Haven.
The examinations revealed that Lumi’s seizures likely stem from trauma-induced epilepsy, attributed to a brain injury sustained during the eye incident. The prognosis indicates that her condition will not deteriorate further, offering hope for her long-term care. Lumi will require lifelong medication to manage the seizures, enabling the team to provide tailored support.
Although the trip incurred costs of around $10,000, funding from generous donors facilitated the essential tests. Wildlife Haven emphasized the financial burden of caring for animals, with daily costs averaging $50 per animal. Lumi is expected to be relocated to Assiniboine Park Zoo once her care plan is finalized, offering her a stable and comfortable environment.