Those ear tufts and the overall regal look of Maine Coons always remind me of lynxes. Could these gentle giants be somehow related to their wild-looking cousins, or is it just a coincidence? Are there any historical accounts suggesting lynx ancestry in Maine Coons, or is this a purely visual comparison?
V
Despite their impressive size and wild good looks, Maine Coons are not directly related to lynxes. They are purely domesticated cats, descended from European cats brought to America by settlers.
The reason for the resemblance lies in their shared environment. Both Maine Coons and lynxes hail from cold regions. The Maine Coon’s ear tufts, thick fur, and large size are all adaptations to survive harsh winters. Lynxes have similar features for the same reason. These shared adaptations are a case of convergent evolution, not a close family connection.
