Is Scotland ready for the return of lynx?
Lynx could bring a wide range of ecological and societal benefits to Scotland.
The Lynx to Scotland project is assessing the feasibility of reintroducing the Eurasian lynx to the Scottish Highlands.
A big idea like this requires collaboration and a comprehensive approach. We are working with Scotland: The Big Picture and the Lifescape Project to deliver it. Our current work includes:
- cross-sectoral stakeholder consultation via a Lynx Focus Group
- ecological assessments
- planning the practicalities of a reintroduction
In 2021, we conducted a study to understand people’s attitudes toward lynx in two Highland areas. We spoke to many people: farmers, conservationists, gamekeepers, foresters, tourism operators and others. Diverse perspectives emerged, showing that opinions are far more complex than simply being ‘for’ or ‘against’. The study also revealed some gaps in knowledge around the impact of lynx on existing land management and on other wildlife.
We are now working to fill those gaps in knowledge and see if potential barriers can be overcome. As the project develops, this will involve further community consultation. The success of species reintroduction depends on the support and buy-in of local people.
We published the first Lynx to Scotland report in April 2022, which you can read here. The report gives an insight into the project’s consultation and the conversations it prompted.
Lynx to Scotland will determine whether a release is possible: practically, socially and politically.
Aims
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Identify socio-economic barriers to lynx reintroduction and determine whether these can be overcome.
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Compile the evidence required to justify lynx reintroduction addressing ecological, socio-economic and other benefits.
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Mainstream the concept of lynx reintroduction in wider Scottish society and among decision-makers.
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Assemble the evidence required to submit a licence application to release lynx, if appropriate.
Working with
Lynx to Scotland is a partnership project between Trees for Life, Scotland: The Big Picture and the Lifescape Project.
It is kindly funded by the Fred Foundation, Orp Foundation, Sigrid Rausing Trust and the Rewilding Innovation Fund (Rewilding Britain).
