In December 2023, a scientific study of the ecological feasibility of reintroducing lynx was published by The Lifescape Project. The report showed that lynx reintroduction would be ecologically viable across three regions of Scotland. But any reintroduction needs to be borne by the community – through a process by which stakeholders express their views, concerns, and hopes, a cohesive management plan can be constructed.
In 2021, Lynx to Scotland conducted a study to understand people’s attitudes toward lynx in two Highland areas. Project partners 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.
Lynx to Scotland is now working to raise the level of understanding about what co-existence with lynx might involve, and exploring solutions to potential barriers. 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.
The first Lynx to Scotland report was published 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.
As part of our work to restore nature, TENT is providing support to the Lynx to Scotland project, a partnership between Trees for Life, Scotland: The Big Picture and the Lifescape Project. Our support focuses on assisting the process by which consensus can be achieved on a potential reintroduction of the species, addressing knowledge gaps around the impact of lynx on land management and wildlife, consulting with key stakeholders and community groups.
