Authorities are investigating the capture of two lynx in Scotland, raising concerns about illegal wildlife reintroductions
Kingussie: Police are on the hunt for answers after two lynx were caught near the Dell of Killiehuntly. This happened just a day after another pair was found nearby.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) managed to lure the lynx into humane traps, and thankfully, they’re both doing well.
These two were taken to the Highland Wildlife Park before heading to Edinburgh Zoo for a little quarantine time.
Keep your eyes open! One of the big cats went missing recently. Have you spotted it? pic.twitter.com/m6tg7iahpq
On Saturday, The Scotsman mentioned that some conservationists think a “frustrated activist” might be behind the release, wanting to see the lynx back in Scotland.
David Field, the RZSS chief, described the lynx as “full of character” but reminded everyone they’re still wild animals.
He told BBC Radio 4 that there are some rogue rewilders out there who ignore the proper channels and just act on impulse, which is pretty concerning.
He also pointed out that it could just be someone abandoning pets they no longer want.
The RZSS confirmed that the captured lynx are used to humans and quite tame.
These lynx are about the size of a Labrador and are usually shy, so attacks on people are extremely rare.
Edward Mountain, a Conservative MSP for the Highlands and Islands, said the second capture suggests someone is trying to illegally reintroduce lynx.
He emphasized that these animals don’t just appear out of nowhere, and the authorities need to focus on finding out who’s behind this wildlife crime.
Police Scotland is still looking into how the lynx ended up in the area, and they’re working with wildlife experts to investigate further.
In 2021, a group of charities even started a consultation to gauge public opinion on possibly reintroducing Eurasian lynx to Scotland.
Earlier this week, Peter Cairns, a director of one of those charities, condemned the illegal release, saying it undermines their efforts to bring lynx back to the Highlands.
