Cameras used to watch wildlife in Spain have recorded an unusual behavior among Iberian lynxes. Over five years, researchers recorded several females carrying dead rabbits to water troughs, which hold water for animals to drink. The lynxes repeatedly dipped the rabbits underwater before eating them. This is the first time researchers have documented a wild cat soaking its food in this way.
Scientists are not sure what purpose the behavior serves. One possibility is that the wet food helps the cats get enough water during hot summers. Another is that soaking makes the rabbits softer for cubs to eat. However, the animals may be doing it for a different reason that researchers do not yet understand. These explanations remain possibilities rather than established answers.
The discovery came from a long-term effort to monitor Iberian lynxes. The species once came close to dying out but has since made a strong recovery. As researchers continue watching these cats, they are finding behavior that they had not previously recorded.
