On Friday 23 May, 2025, a comprehensive 100-page report was released, providing an in-depth analysis of the potential coexistence between lynx and humans in Scotland through a reintroduction project.
The report, titled “Scotland’s National Lynx Discussion: Stakeholder Views on Key Topics Related to a Potential Reintroduction of the Eurasian Lynx to the Scottish Highlands”, outlines conclusions and recommendations agreed upon by a diverse group of 53 stakeholders. These stakeholders, including farmer and landowner organizations, gamekeepers, foresters, tourism operators, and conservationists, participated in a nine-month national discussion organized by the Lynx to Scotland partnership.
The stakeholder group, facilitated by an expert from the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Conservation Planning Specialist Group, met 12 times for over 50 hours to discuss the potential impacts and necessary actions for a successful lynx reintroduction. Steve Micklewright, chief executive of Trees for Life and a member of the stakeholder group, stated that the discussions were extensive and allowed for lessons to be learned from previous lynx reintroductions in Europe.
While not all participants were in support of the return of lynx, the group reached a consensus on the necessary measures to be taken if a reintroduction were to occur. They identified suitable woodland and natural prey for a viable lynx population in the Highlands and recognized potential economic benefits through eco-tourism. The group also discussed the potential benefits to endangered wildlife, as lynx could control smaller predators such as foxes.
However, the stakeholders also acknowledged that reintroduction could have negative impacts, particularly on sheep farming and forestry operations. To mitigate these concerns, recommendations were made for measures such as payments for losses, coexistence, and a rapid response system for farmers experiencing sheep predation. The stakeholders also emphasized the importance of collaboration with all stakeholders, especially local communities, throughout any reintroduction project.
Andrew Bauer, a stakeholder group member with experience in species reintroduction policy in Scotland, stated that the recommendations aim to address the potential negative impacts on rural livelihoods and ensure proper checks and balances are in place.
The facilitator of the National Lynx Discussion, Jamie Copsey of the IUCN Conservation Planning Specialist Group, highlighted the importance of listening to and respecting differing viewpoints and concerns in reaching a consensus.
The Eurasian lynx, which poses no threat to humans, was driven to extinction in Scotland in the Middle Ages due to hunting and habitat loss. However, the species is recovering in other parts of Europe through successful reintroductions. Any reintroduction in Scotland would require approval from the Scottish Government, following ecological assessments and a full public consultation.
The Lynx to Scotland partnership, consisting of Trees for Life, SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, and The Lifescape Project, hopes to use the report’s recommendations to work towards a successful lynx reintroduction project. The full report is available at www.scotlandbigpicture.com/lynx-to-scotland.
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