A Manitoba lynx that was rescued near Swan River and brought to an Ontario facility has been given a new diagnosis. Lumi the lynx was discovered in late August with an injured eye, believed to be orphaned as her mother was likely injured or killed. The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Ile des Chênes, southeast of Winnipeg, took in Lumi and determined that her eye injury was severe, preventing her release back into the wild.
In October, Lumi began experiencing severe seizures, posing a threat to her health and survival, according to Wildlife Haven’s executive director, Zoe Nakata. Despite the care and medication provided by the staff to manage the seizures, the underlying cause was unknown, prompting the need for further assessment. A decision was made to transport Lumi to Guelph, Ontario, for specialized tests not available in Manitoba.
Upon arrival in Guelph, Lumi underwent an MRI, a neurology assessment, and blood work with the assistance of the National Wildlife Centre and the Ontario Veterinary College. The results revealed that Lumi likely suffers from trauma-induced epilepsy due to a brain injury sustained during the eye incident. This diagnosis means Lumi will require lifelong medication to control the seizures, but it also allows for more targeted and effective care.
The journey to Ontario for testing was funded by generous donors, with costs amounting to approximately $10,000. With the knowledge of Lumi’s condition, the Wildlife Haven team can now ensure her well-being and plan for her future care. Eventually, Lumi is slated to be relocated to the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg once her care plan is stable.
Despite the challenges, Lumi has adapted well to her new environment at the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre, where staff have enhanced her enclosure with more perches for enrichment activities. The eventual move to the zoo will provide Lumi with a permanent home where she can live comfortably under the watchful care of dedicated professionals.