Orphaned Lynx

In the larger lynx populations it happens almost every year that some young lynx lose contact with their mother.

In order to successfully rehabilitate orphaned young lynx, rescue centers are necessary where the animals receive professional veterinary care. Large suitable enclosures and little contact with people ensure that the animals remain shy until they are released back into the wild.

Rehabilitated and genetically suitable orphaned lynx are a valuable resource for ongoing reintroduction projects. In addition, the regular exchange of such animals between the different Carpathian lynx populations should help to improve genetic exchange in the future.  

The Sourcing Working Group brings together lynx experts for all three potential sources for reintroductions: captive-bred lynx, orphans and wild-caught lynx. Together we are committed to ensuring that

• Orphaned lynx from all Carpathian lynx populations that are suitable for rehabilitation are raised in professional wildlife sanctuaries.
• the bureaucratic requirements for the rapid transport of orphaned lynx between different Carpathian lynx populations and European states within and outside the EU are created.
• the animals are released back into the wild according to scientific standards (Linking Lynx Protocols).  
• scientific monitoring of the animals takes place during the first months after their release into the wild and the data obtained contribute to the constant improvement of the handling of orphaned lynx.