Translocation

Press release Baden-Württemberg, Ministry of Food, Rural Areas and Consumer Protection, 10 July 2024:

«The lynx Finja was a pioneer and should lay the foundation for a permanent and healthy lynx population in Baden-Württemberg and contribute to supporting the population. In December last year, she was successfully released into the wild and roamed the northern Black Forest. During a routine check for a possible bite, the animal was found alive but in a very poor condition in the northern Black Forest. The vets from Karlsruhe Zoo were called in immediately. They initiated the first rescue measures. Unfortunately, all veterinary measures were unable to stabilise the lynx's condition. As no treatment was effective and to prevent further suffering, the animal unfortunately had to be put down. This is sad, but unfortunately it can also be part of the reality of reintroduction projects,» said Peter Hauk, Minister for Food, Rural Areas and Consumer Protection.

Finja came from a wildlife enclosure in Thuringia and was prepared for release into the wild in a special enclosure in Rhineland-Palatinate. Following genetic, medical and behavioural ecology tests, the lynx cat met all the requirements. Since being released into the wild, she had, like her conspecifics, regularly preyed on deer and occasionally hares and foxes.

The lynx cat Finja could be localised via her collar transmitter. Wildlife cameras were also used to take regular pictures of her, in which she always appeared healthy. The causes of her death are currently being investigated. This will take several weeks until all investigations have been finalised.

«Even if such a loss cannot be ruled out, this is a very sad moment. We had hoped that Finja could contribute to the reestablishment of a lynx population with cubs in the Black Forest. Despite the loss of Finja, we will stick to our plans and introduce more lynx to the state,» emphasised the Minister.