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Lynx Stepan at Kyiv Zoo

Lynx Stepan eats meat in an enclosure at the Kyiv Zoo, Kyiv, Ukraine, on April 2, 2026. The feline became a social media star because of his appearance. Experts explain that the eight-year-old predator, rescued in 2024, spent most of his life in cages in restaurants, cafes, and private homes. This is likely the reason for his excess weight, which is difficult to reduce due to the animal's health and age. His condition is now constantly monitored by zoo employees and veterinarians, who provide individual care. (Photo by Kyrylo Chubotin/Ukrinform/NurPhoto)

Photo ID	#13528642
Date Taken	2 April 2026
Location	N/A
Photographer	Kirill Chubotin/Ukrinform/NurPhoto
Category	Human Interest
Copyright	© 2026 NurPhoto - Kirill Chubotin/Ukrinform/NurPhoto

No People animal zoo lynx feline predator Kyiv Zoo Kyiv Stepan meat enclosure Ukraine social media star appearance experts eight-year-old rescued 2024 cages restaurants cafes private homes excess weight health age condition monitored zoo employees veterinarians individual care Kyrylo Chubotin Ukrinform NurPhoto April 2 2026 NO USE RUSSIA NO USE BELARUS.