ILVES Meaning and
Definition
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Ilves is a noun that refers to a wild carnivorous mammal native to Northern Europe and Asia, commonly known as the Eurasian lynx. It is typically characterized by its medium to large size, with males weighing between 40 to 66 pounds (18 to 30 kilograms) and females weighing around 22 to 44 pounds (10 to 20 kilograms). Ilves possesses a compact and sturdy body with relatively long legs, enabling it to move swiftly and effortlessly through its forested habitat.
In appearance, Ilves has a short, dense fur coat that exhibits a range of colors, usually ranging from pale yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, with distinctive black markings forming spots, streaks or rosettes on its body. It is renowned for its tufted ears, which are black at the tips and have a characteristic white spot on the back. The animal's facial features also include a strong jaw and sharp facial whiskers.
Ilves is a solitary and elusive creature, mostly active during twilight hours and at night. Its diet mainly consists of small to medium-sized mammals, such as hares, squirrels, and reindeer calves, but it may also occasionally hunt birds, fish, or even larger prey when necessary. Despite its carnivorous nature, the lynx is generally not a threat to humans and tends to avoid direct encounters.
Ilves has significant cultural and symbolic value, being considered a powerful and mystical animal in many folklore and mythological traditions. It also holds an important place in conservation efforts due to its declining population and protected status in many countries.
Etymology of ILVES
The word "ilves" has its etymology in the Finnish language. It is derived from the Proto-Finnic word "ilves" or "ilpeh", which referred to a lynx or wildcat. This word can be traced back to the Proto-Finno-Ugric term "*ilbī" or "*ilbi ("lynx"). Ultimately, the origin of this word is uncertain, as it likely predates the earliest written records of the Finnish language.
