Siberian lynx escapes Southwest Broward home

A pet Siberian lynx escaped its home in Southwest Ranches and spent a few hours in unaccustomed freedom — about 6,000 miles from the snow-covered forests of its native land.

The 70-pound wildcat named Sasha was captured a few hours later on a neighbor’s property by state wildlife officers, according to a report by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. It was the animal’s second escape in the past few months.

“I feel really bad that he got out,” said Sasha’s owner, Perry Burk, of Pembroke Pines, who was cited for the escape. “He was more traumatized than anything. When I picked him up, he was limp in my arms. He was so happy to be found.”

The lynx is a cold-weather creature notable for its snowshoe-like paws, presumably of little use in southwestern Broward County. The species, which spans northern Europe and Asia from Norway to the Pacific Ocean, is not considered a threat to people. It preys on rabbits, foxes, deer and other mammals.

Ownership of exotic pets is controversial, with critics saying undomesticated animals have a difficult time adjusting to living with people. Exotic pets have been a particular problem in Florida, where the pet industry and irresponsible owners can be blamed for the Burmese pythons infesting the Everglades, lionfish overruning coral reefs and iguanas chowing down on expensive landscaping.

Burk said Sasha, who is about 10 years old, is a tame, affectionate animal, even though the species is not domesticated.

“This particular cat will sleep in your bed, lie down next to you,” he said. “He likes to be alone, but when he wants attention, he’ll put his paws on me. He’s a very affectionate animal.”

He feeds Sasha about two pounds of meat a day, purchased from a specialty store that supplies zoos.

He said the animal had belonged to his father, who just died. During his father’s last days, he said, doctors, nurses and others were entering and leaving the house, and it was during that time that one of the visitors left a door open that allowed Sasha to slip away.

The state wildlife service was alerted by the Davie Police Department, which provides law enforcement for Southwest Ranches. The previous escape took place June 18.

The lynx in Southwest Ranches was legally permitted. In Florida 46 individuals and organizations hold permits to keep medium-sized wildcats, including lynx, bobcats, servals and caracals.

dfleshler@sunsentinel.com, 954-356-4535