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A year ago, three young lynx were discovered in a near-starvation state after being abandoned in the Scottish Highlands. These female cats, found near Kingussie, were captured and taken into care, while a fourth lynx—a male—was also trapped but unfortunately did not survive. The mystery surrounding their illegal release remains unresolved, with Police Scotland actively investigating those responsible. Now, the surviving trio has found a new home at the Highland Wildlife Park near Kincraig, where their keepers report that they are flourishing in their enriched environment.
The incident unfolded amid the snowy backdrop of Cairngorms National Park last January. Initially, two lynx were spotted in the Drumguish area on the 8th of January. A rescue team from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), operating at the Highland Wildlife Park, successfully captured the pair after setting cage traps baited with venison and quail. These traps were designed to close automatically once the animals entered. Unlike typical wild lynx, which are elusive, these cats showed unusual tameness, calmly allowing keepers to approach them without fleeing.
Further sightings on the following days prompted an intense search involving multiple agencies, including park rangers and Cairngorms Mountain Rescue using drone surveillance. Two more lynx were caught, with the male dying soon afterward. Experts described all four cats as young—between six and eight months old—and naive, likely unable to fend for themselves in the wild. Previously native to Scotland, lynx had disappeared from the region centuries ago. Conservation groups condemned the illegal release as reckless and irresponsible, emphasizing the potential harm such actions pose to wildlife and local communities.
Following a quarantine period and health assessments conducted at Edinburgh Zoo, the three surviving females—named Caledonia, Cardrona, and Bluebell—were relocated to the Highland Wildlife Park. Over the past year, they have adapted well, each developing distinct personalities. According to Lucy Petrie, the animal operations manager, Cardrona stands out due to her bold and curious nature. Caledonia proves to be the most agile, often seen climbing trees, while Bluebell enjoys playful antics such as tossing food during feeding times. Ms. Petrie added that the cats’ playful routines and their favorite resting spot atop their enclosure demonstrate their contentment in captivity.
Despite the successful rescue and care, the origins of the lynx remain an enigma. Investigators found bedding with porcupine quills near the initial sighting location, suggesting the possibility that the animals came from a place housing other exotic species. As lynx ownership requires a licence under the Dangerous Animals Act, Highland Council confirmed no such licences had been issued locally, pointing to the likelihood the lynx were relocated from elsewhere. NatureScot also stated that no permits for lynx reintroduction had been granted. Police Scotland confirms the inquiry continues without new developments. Meanwhile, RZSS emphasizes the need for science-based conservation efforts and warns against impulsive releases that risk both wildlife and communities
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