Project Update
Lynx Offspring in Baden-Württemberg
After lynx cubs were born in the wild in Baden-Württemberg for the first time in around 180 years in the Northern Black Forest this spring, a female lynx accompanied by a cub has now also been spotted in the Southern Black Forest. At the same time, another previously unknown cub has been confirmed in the Northern Black Forest. This brings the total number of confirmed lynx cubs in the Black Forest to four.
©FVA Baden-Württemberg: Wittemann
Press Release Baden-Württemberg, Forest Research Institute, 4 November 2026:
First Lynx Offspring in the Southern Black Forest
The confirmed sighting in the Southern Black Forest marks the first documented reproduction of a wild female lynx that independently migrated into Baden-Württemberg. This is a rare occurrence, as female lynx generally do not travel long distances when searching for a territory of their own.
The origin of the female lynx in the Southern Black Forest has not yet been conclusively determined. However, given the geographical proximity, it is highly likely that the animal migrated from Switzerland to Baden-Württemberg.
Genetic exchange between the Swiss and Baden-Württemberg lynx populations is essential for establishing a stable, long-term lynx population in the tri-border region where Germany, Switzerland and France meet.
Reintroduced Female Lynx Verena Spotted with Two Cubs in the Northern Black Forest
The reintroduced female lynx Verena was captured on a camera trap accompanied by two cubs. Until now, only one of the cubs had been known, having been indirectly identified through genetic analysis of a hair sample.In addition, the reintroduced female lynx Elisabeth is roaming the Northern Black Forest with one cub, whose presence was first confirmed in May of this year.
Lynx Monitoring Provides Valuable Insights
“These findings demonstrate the importance of continuous, scientifically based monitoring in documenting and assessing the development of the lynx population in Baden-Württemberg,” says Jens Seeger, wildlife ecologist at the Forest Research Institute of Baden-Württemberg (FVA).It is currently unknown whether any additional cubs have been born. Statewide lynx monitoring is carried out by the Forest Research Institute of Baden-Württemberg (FVA) on behalf of the state government. Evidence of lynx presence is systematically recorded, verified and assessed according to standardised scientific criteria.Camera trap images, genetic evidence and sightings provide valuable insights into the distribution of lynx and the development of their population.