Two illegally released lynx have been humanely captured in the Cairngorms National Park, thanks to the efforts of experts from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS). This is a positive development for Lynx to Scotland, a three-charity partnership working to restore lynx to the Scottish Highlands.
Peter Cairns, Executive Director of SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, one of the charities involved, expressed his relief at the successful capture of the lynx. He stated, “It’s excellent news that the lynx were captured safely and quickly. The Lynx to Scotland Project is dedicated to bringing lynx back to the Highlands, but illegal releases like this hinder our efforts.”
The native Eurasian lynx was hunted to extinction in Scotland more than 500 years ago, due to habitat loss and human interference. As a ‘keystone species’, lynx play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Their absence has a negative impact on biodiversity.
Contrary to popular belief, lynx are shy and pose no danger to humans. They have successfully been reintroduced to other European countries such as Germany, France, and Switzerland. Research suggests that the Highlands has the necessary habitat to sustain a population of approximately 400 lynx.
Steve Micklewright, Chief Executive of Trees for Life, emphasized the importance of a carefully planned reintroduction that takes into account the views of all stakeholders. He stated, “Scotland is lacking a large terrestrial mammal predator, and if we want to address the nature and climate emergencies, we need lynx back. Any reintroduction would require approval from the Scottish Government and involve habitat assessments and public consultation.”
Scotland has an abundance of woodland deer, and the absence of predators like lynx has resulted in overgrazed forests. By preying on roe deer and invasive sika deer, lynx could help control the deer population and promote the growth of healthy forests. Additionally, lynx would attract tourists and generate revenue for rural communities.
Discussions are currently underway amongst various stakeholders about the possibility of a responsible and fully supported reintroduction of lynx to Scotland. There is growing public and political support for this, as shown by polls and discussions in the Scottish Parliament in 2023.
The partners of Lynx to Scotland – SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, Trees for Life, and The Lifescape Project – are committed to this cause and believe that a managed reintroduction of lynx would greatly benefit Scotland. For more information, please visit www.scotlandbigpicture.com/lynx-to-scotland.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.