International Lynx Day!

Today, the 11th June is International Lynx Day and the Small WildCat Resource Group has had the privilege of talking to Dina Gepard, the Eurasian Lynx EEP coordinator from Tierpark Bern. We would also like to credit Tierpark Bern for the use of the photos in this blog.

"Since 2022, Tierpark Bern has been coordinating the EEP (EAZA Ex-situ Programme) for the Eurasian lynx – an exciting and vital conservation effort! The Carpathian lynx plays a key role in reintroduction projects across Central Europe.

As part of the Linking Lynx expert network, we’re working toward a long-term goal: establishing a viable metapopulation of Carpathian lynx stretching from the Carpathians through the Jura, Western Alps, and Dinaric Mountains. To ensure healthy, genetically diverse populations, multiple reintroductions and reinforcements are necessary.

In 2024, for the first time, 10 lynx born in zoos were released into the wild as part of three projects in Germany. This marks a milestone in conservation – meeting the growing demand for lynx in rewilding projects, alongside relocations of wild individuals and orphaned lynx.

To support these efforts, Linking Lynx has developed expert protocols, medical screening standards, and behavioural assessments to ensure only the most suitable lynx are released with the highest chances of survival in the wild.

Together, we’re working to reconnect and protect lynx populations across Europe – one step at a time."

A huge thank you to Dina for providing us with an overview of the work of the Lynx EEP for International Lynx Day and we look forward to sharing more information with you on the species on our Species Spotlight blog at the end of the month!

For more information on Linking Lynx please look on the website here. Linking Lynx | Linking Lynx