A lynx, one of four believed to have been illegally released in Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, died shortly after capture, prompting wildlife officials to condemn the act. The animals, absent from Scotland for centuries, were spotted in the snowy region this week.
The deceased lynx was part of a pair captured Friday. Conservationists express deep concern about the animals' welfare, noting the abrupt transition to a harsh environment. "The animals' plight highlights the risks of abandoning them without proper preparation," stated Helen Senn of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.
While some environmentalists advocate for lynx reintroduction to control deer populations, the illegal release has raised serious questions. Police are investigating the potential involvement of a private breeder or individuals opposed to reintroduction efforts.
A local Conservative MP, Edward Mountain, noted the coordinated nature of the releases, urging authorities to prioritize finding the perpetrators. "Such illegal actions undermine legitimate reintroduction efforts," he emphasized.
