The Edmonton Oilers' mascot is a lynx because it was overwhelmingly the most popular choice among students in a comprehensive survey conducted by the organization.
Why the Oilers Chose a Lynx
The selection of the Canadian lynx, named Hunter, as the Edmonton Oilers' mascot was the direct result of extensive community engagement. The organization undertook a thorough research process to determine a mascot that would resonate with their younger fanbase and the wider region.
The Selection Process
To identify the ideal mascot, the Oilers:
- Conducted a large-scale survey: Over 2,200 students from kindergarten to Grade 9 across the region participated.
- Analyzed preferences: The survey aimed to understand what kind of animal or character would be most appealing.
- Identified a clear favorite: The Canadian lynx emerged as "far and away the most popular choice" among all the options presented.
This clear preference led to the creation of Hunter, who has since become a beloved figure representing the team and engaging with fans. The choice reflects a deliberate effort by the Oilers to create a mascot that genuinely connects with the community, especially its younger members.
