Three young lynx illegally released into the Cairngorms are thriving after completing their 30-day quarantine at Edinburgh Zoo.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) successfully trapped the wild cats in early January after sightings in the Drumguish area near Kingussie.
It has now been confirmed that all three lynx are female and estimated to be less than a year old.
RZSS chief executive David Field condemned the illegal release as highly irresponsible, stating that the lynx would likely have perished without intervention.
Fortunately, the rescued lynx are in good health and settling well into their temporary home at Edinburgh Zoo.
Expert keepers and veterinarians have been monitoring them closely, noting that the young cats are becoming more confident and beginning to show their unique personalities.
Now that quarantine has been successfully completed, the focus shifts to finding a permanent home for the trio.
For the time being, they will remain at Edinburgh Zoo while suitable options are explored.
Caring for the lynx is costly, leading RZSS to launch a fundraising appeal, which has seen a heartening response from the public.
The animals have been temporarily named ‘A,’ ‘B,’ and ‘C,’ following a tradition established by the charity’s founder, Thomas Gillespie, when Edinburgh Zoo opened in 1913.
Tragically, a fourth lynx, a young male of a similar age, died overnight after being captured in January.
The future of the rescued lynx remains uncertain, but their survival is a testament to the dedication of conservationists working tirelessly to protect wildlife.
As discussions continue on their next steps, their story serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required in reintroducing species into the wild.
