Three young lynx, once abandoned and alone in the Cairngorms, are now thriving in their new home at Highland Wildlife Park.
The playful trio, discovered in the heart of winter, were rescued in January by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland and initially cared for at Edinburgh Zoo, where they received veterinary support and completed a period of quarantine.
Now back in the Highlands, just a few miles from where their story began, the cats have settled into their purpose-built enclosure among the snow-capped peaks and forested surroundings of the park.
David Field, chief executive of RZSS, praised the team effort behind the rescue and the community support that followed.
“We are very pleased to welcome the lynx to Highland Wildlife Park and grateful to our members and everyone who made a donation to help us care for these wonderful cats,” he said.
He added that the animals were so accustomed to humans when they were found that they would almost certainly have perished if left in the wild.
“These lynx simply didn’t have the skills to survive alone.
“They wouldn’t have been able to hunt or fend for themselves, so bringing them into our care was essential.”
The arrival of the young lynx is not just a happy ending to a rescue story but also a timely chance to shine a light on the species itself.
Lynx were once native to Scotland but have been extinct here for centuries.
Their reappearance, even in unusual circumstances, has reignited conversations around the potential for future reintroduction efforts.
“Having these lynx here will help people learn about them, connect with them and think more deeply about how we can bring wildlife back in a way that is thoughtful and sustainable,” said Field.
The cubs are already delighting keepers and visitors with their lively personalities.
They love tumbling about together, pouncing on balls, and playing with enrichment toys designed to keep their minds and bodies active.
As part of their welcome, Highland Wildlife Park has launched a prize draw that gives one lucky winner the chance to meet one of the lynx up close and help choose a name.
It’s a rare opportunity to be part of a truly heartwarming conservation journey.
Visitors to the park can now see the lynx in person, and plans are already in place for talks and activities that will give people of all ages the chance to learn more about these beautiful and elusive animals.
The trio’s journey from abandonment to affection is one that’s sure to inspire.
A prize draw has been launched giving the public the chance to meet and name one of the lynx.
To enter visit crowdfunder.co.uk/name-a-lynx
