Illegal Lynx Release in Scottish Highlands Spurs Debate Over Rewilding

The release of four tame lynx, one of which has died, has raised questions about rewilding efforts, animal welfare, and legal accountability in Scotland.

• Four Eurasian lynx, believed to have been illegally released in the Cairngorms, were recaptured, with one dying from apparent starvation shortly after being taken into care.
• Experts are divided on whether the release was an act by rogue rewilding activists or the abandonment of exotic pets, with investigations ongoing by Police Scotland.
• Critics, including former rural affairs secretary Fergus Ewing, have condemned the release as reckless, cruel, and harmful to both the animals and the rewilding movement's credibility.
• Environmentalist Ben Goldsmith voiced frustration over the lack of official rewilding initiatives but denied involvement in the release, calling for a structured reintroduction of lynx to Scotland.
• The Scottish government reiterated that any lynx reintroduction would require extensive consultation and evidence, while conservationists stressed the importance of adhering to international best practices.

3 Articles

The Times The Telegraph The Telegraph