Eurasian lynx have been reintroduced to parts of Europe where they were extirpated. Reintroduction programs must consider animal welfare throughout capture, transport, and release.
Lynx reintroduction welfare begins with the welfare of source animals. Capture in wild populations using box traps or immobilization causes acute stress. Transport and soft-release procedures must minimize time in holding and provide appropriate stress reduction. Reintroduced animals face novel environments without established territories, requiring adjustment periods during which mortality risk is elevated. Ongoing monitoring using GPS collars allows welfare assessment and intervention if needed. Illegal poisoning and trapping of reintroduced lynx is both a criminal offense and a direct welfare harm that conservation authorities must actively counter.