Three young lynx rescued earlier this year in the Cairngorms have found their paws and are thriving at the Highland Wildlife Park near Kincraig.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) stepped in to save the trio, named Bluebell, Caledonia, and Cardrona after they were discovered abandoned in the wild.
Five months on, the playful sisters have settled into their new home and are now showing off their lively and curious personalities.
Keepers at the wildlife conservation charity have been working closely with the lynx on a training programme designed to make their daily care and vet checks easier and stress-free.
Animal keeper Megan Retallick said the three have quickly captured the hearts of staff and visitors alike.
“The girls have settled in incredibly well,” she said, “their outgoing nature keeps us on our toes, and we’re always finding new ways to train and enrich them.”
Megan explained that the cats have already learned to respond to station training, which rewards them for coming to a specific spot when asked.
“Target training is next on the plan,” she said, “where they’ll learn to touch a target with their nose in exchange for a treat.”
After months of care, their individual personalities have become easy to spot.
“Cardrona is the boldest, leading the way with her curious and mischievous nature,” Megan said.
“Caledonia is agile and can often be seen climbing trees in her habitat.
“Bluebell loves to play with her food, tossing her meals in the air during feeding time.”
Their antics aren’t limited to training sessions.
“All three enjoy chasing each other early in the morning and playfully stalking birds,” Megan added.
“But their favourite spot is relaxing together on top of their house.”
Visitors to the Highland Wildlife Park can now see the trio in their woodland enclosure, where their natural behaviours, from stalking and climbing to resting high above the ground can be observed up close.
The RZSS says the lynx sisters’ progress is a reminder of how effective rehabilitation can be when animals receive expert care in safe surroundings.
By engaging the public in their story, the charity hopes to inspire greater understanding of native wildlife and the importance of protecting Scotland’s natural habitats.
Tickets for Highland Wildlife Park can be booked online at highlandwildlifepark.org.uk/tickets, with discounts available for advance bookings.
