A Macroanatomical Study on the Hind Leg Muscles and Tendons of the Caucasian Lynx

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ÖZKOCAOĞLU T. C., Takcı L.

Turkish Journal of Veterinary Research (Online), cilt.10, sa.1, ss.125-130, 2026 (TRDizin)

Özet

Objectives: The Caucasian lynx (Lynx lynx dinniki) is a significant wild felid species in Türkiye. This study aims to provide a detailed macroanatomical description of the pelvic limb muscles and tendons of the Caucasian lynx to contribute to the comparative anatomy of felids and wildlife medicine. Materials and Methods: In this study, three adult female Caucasian lynx (weighing 6.9 kg, 7.6 kg, and 8.3 kg), which died due to a traffic accident, were used. The muscles of the regio femoris, regio cruris, and regio pedis were dissected individually. The origins, insertions, and morphological characteristics of the muscles were recorded and photographed. Results: It was observed that the m. gluteus medius was the largest among the gluteal muscles. The m. sartorius appeared as a single unit, similar to felines, visible as a thin band laterally and flattened medially. In the regio cruris, the m. soleus was well-developed and joined the tendo calcaneus communis. M. biceps femoris was found to have two heads (pelvic and vertebral), unlike the single-headed structure reported in some other lynx studies. Conclusions: The muscular anatomy of the Caucasian lynx hind limb shows similarity to the domestic cat but possesses distinct robust features, such as thicker tendons and a two-headed m. biceps femoris, adapted for its predatory lifestyle in rugged habitats.