Carnivores

Rewilding Lynx Return to UK Uplands

Proposals to reintroduce Eurasian lynx to Scottish and English uplands would restore a missing predator and create ecological and welfare benefits for prey species and ecosystems.

Key Facts

Lynx were extirpated from Britain approximately 1,300 years ago primarily through habitat loss and hunting
European lynx populations have recovered in Scandinavia and parts of central Europe
Lynx prey primarily on roe deer which are overabundant in UK uplands due to predator absence
Trial reintroduction proposals in Scotland and Cumbria have received significant stakeholder attention

Welfare Considerations

Lynx reintroduction would have complex welfare implications. Deer killed by lynx experience predation stress, but deer populations in UK uplands currently face chronic malnutrition from overgrazing beyond habitat carrying capacity. Ecologically, restoring a keystone predator generally improves habitat quality supporting many species. Welfare considerations for both lynx and prey species should inform reintroduction planning alongside ecological and social factors.

What You Can Do

Support evidence-based lynx reintroduction proposals in appropriate UK upland areas
Learn about lynx ecology and predator restoration research to inform advocacy
Engage with farmer concerns about lynx impacts through constructive dialogue
Donate to organizations building the evidence base for UK lynx reintroduction