Breeding

Press release Nationalpark Harz, 04.09.2026:

It is with great regret that the National Park Authority must announce the death of the three young lynx that were born this spring to the breeding female lynx, Rikki, in the National Park’s enclosure. One of the cubs had recently been found dead in the enclosure. This discovery prompted an in-depth veterinary examination of the other two, which were subsequently euthanised by a vet due to significant congenital malformations of internal organs that would have made survival without suffering impossible. The National Park Authority is working closely with veterinarians and pathologists to carry out further investigations and to determine the exact causes of this unforeseen turn of events. The husbandry and rearing conditions in the National Park’s large outdoor enclosure comply with the protocol drawn up by international experts for the breeding of lynx for reintroduction projects. The animals are looked after by an experienced zoo keeper. Supervision in accordance with animal welfare standards is ensured by a commissioned veterinary surgeon. Any necessary veterinary procedures are carried out by experienced vets. Dr Roland Pietsch, Director of the National Park: “This is a major setback for us, for the conservation of this fascinating and still highly endangered species in Europe, and for my colleagues, who contribute so much dedication, expertise and experience. The priority now is to swiftly determine the cause, in particular through further examination of the breeding animals, and to decide on the next steps based on this.”