Russia’s Leningrad Zoo is an iconic landmark. The facility is the oldest zoo in Russia, having opened its doors way back in 1865— and, although the Leningrad Zoo has encountered obstacles throughout the years, it currently boasts over 2,000 animals belonging to more than 600 different species.
The zoo’s diverse assortment of animals includes everything from alpacas and llamas to invertebrates and fish— but a few years ago, it was the Leningrad Zoo’s resident lynx that was garnering attention worldwide!
Lynx is a gorgeous genus of wildcat, encompassing 4 separate species: the Eurasian lynx, Canadian lynx, Iberian lynx, and Bobcats. Of the different types of species, the Eurasian lynx is the biggest in size— it’s not rare to see male Eurasian lynxes weighing 65 pounds and measuring up to 50″ in length!
As the name suggests, Eurasian lynxes are native to Europe, Central Asia, and the Russian Siberian forest. They are considered extremely dangerous carnivores, being ranked the third largest predator in all the European continent, after brown bears and grey wolves.
So, I think it goes without saying that lynx are tough— and I wouldn’t want to run into one wandering around by myself. Shockingly, however, that’s exactly what happened to one curious calico that broke into the Leningrad Zoo back in 2008.
According to KFOR, this shocking story began when a homeless kitten broke into the Leningrad Zoo, presumably on the hunt for food. The kitty’s nose led her to the lynx enclosure, where she found a yummy meal— and, apparently, a brand-new friend!
The brave calico roamed into the lynx, Linda’s, enclosure, and stole a bit of food. People were terrified when Linda finally approached the tiny kitty— but instead of attacking, she welcomed the newcomer into her life.
This whole thing is incredible for few reasons. First of all, it’s amazing to see Linda, a solitary carnivore hunter, befriend a kitty she could easily kill with one smack of her giant paw. On the other hand, despite their differences, it’s amazing to see how similar these (seemingly different) cat buddies can truly be!
Despite their differences in size, Linda and the kitty Dusja immediately became the best of friends.
Linda was happy to share her food with the Dusja. The two got along so well, the zoo even adopted the kitty so the pair could play together for good!
Since that fateful day 10 years ago, Linda and Dusja have grown up together and are the best of friends.
The unlikely pair spends their days watching the zoo’s patrons, snuggling, and playing with their toys.
Linda and Dusja’s bond is strange yet beautiful.
It reminds us to look past our differences—because you never know where you may find a friend!
See them in action below!
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