The Missing Lynx Project is exploring whether the wild cat could thrive in Cumbria, Northumberland and Southern Scotland under reintroduction plans.
Lynx were a native British predator in the ancient world, until they disappeared from our shores in medieval times due to a loss of woodland.
A study, conducted by ecologists involved in The Missing Lynx Project, has determined that Kielder Forest would be a viable location for the wildcat’s reintroduction.
Eurasian Lynx Flossie and Torridon exploring their enclosure, unveiled near Kent in October. (Image: Gareth Fuller)
If ecologists can secure a license, 20 lynx could be released into the Northumberland forest over several years. Five years after the initial release, their population could extend into North Cumbria and the Scottish Borders.
The Lifescape Project Partnership is the umbrella organisation behind the study and potential reintroduction of the lynx.
Julie Minns, MP for Carlisle, said: “I’m not convinced our area is suitable for the reintroduction of the lynx, but I have asked those working for it to meet with Carlisle NFU as a priority.
“It is vitally important before reintroducing a species of predator into the landscape, to consult thoroughly with farmers who are both our food producers and the custodians of much of Cumbria’s land, for their views and to satisfactorily address concerns about potential impacts on sheep farming, animal welfare and business viability.”
A Eurasian Lynx. (Image: Newsquest)
Lynx are best described as a medium-sized cat which eat deer and some carnivores such as foxes.
The Lifescape Project led a year-long consultation on the potential reintroduction of the lynx, touring communities near to woodland that could accommodate them.
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Doctor Deborah Brady, lead ecologist at The Lifescape Project said that it was “an in-depth consultation,” which shows that local people “broadly accept the idea and we also know that lynx could thrive in the area.”
The 12 month consultation found that 72 per cent of people spoken to the project area would support the reintroduction of the lynx.
However, concerns have been raised by sheep farmers that lynx could predate livestock, despite The Lynx UK Trust’s assurance that in mainland Europe, a single cat takes on average 0.4 sheep per year.
While the Carlisle branch is yet to declare its position, NFU Mutual “the voice of British Farming” said of lynx populations in Europe: “They have been known to attack livestock such as sheep and goats, particularly when grazing near the edges of woodlands.
“This presents a serious risk to livestock businesses” they said.