Linking Lynx

The long-term goal is to connect existing populations and create a viable Carpathian lynx metapopulation spanning from the Carpathian Mountains to the Jura and Western Alps, including the German low mountain ranges and part of the Dinaric Mountains. To reach this goal, a transboundary conservation strategy for the lynx in the Carpathian Mountains, further reintroductions, and reinforcement of genetically impoverished populations are needed. To meet the demand for lynx needed for reintroductions while avoiding over-exploitation of the wild source populations, cooperation with the EAZA captive breeding programme is crucial.

Even though the Eurasian lynx is not endangered over its entire range, some local populations are under threat. In Western and Central Europe, where the species was extinct by the end of the 19th century, the Carpathian lynx subspecies has been used to create several reintroduced populations. All of these reintroduced populations are still small and isolated with limited genetic exchange. There are also conservation concerns for the autochthonous source population in the Carpathian Mountains. Population numbers have been overestimated leading to conflicts with human interests. Further concerns are related to habitat quality and connectivity.