The lynx
(Lynx lynx) was exterminated by 500AD in Great Britain, but the Lynx Trust is entering the final stages to formally request reintroduction of the predator to England and Scotland. It is believed that the feline is a natural control for species such as dear, and because of its smaller size and elusiveness may make it a better choice than the wolf. Three sites have been chosen in consultation with landowners, one in Scotland and two in England. Lynx have been reintroduced in other parts of Europe successfully. Andalusia has 309 Iberian lynx living in the wild after an intensive effort to save it from extinction. The cats offer opportunities for forest preservation as habitat, reduction of pests, and economic opportunities for rural communities to host eco-tourism. Forests in the UK suffer from an over-abundance of deer that browse incessantly on the forest in the absence of an apex predator. Wild cats and foxes are too small to control deer while roe dear is the favorite prey of the Eurasian lynx
[photo].
Of course plans to reintroduce a predator immediately raises concern among agriculturalists. Part of the concern is due to a misunderstanding of the ecological niche occupied by lynx. Primarily a woodland hunter, it rarely encounter livestock. And if there is sufficient natural prey about, it has no need to take a sheep or cow. Predation by lynx in the rest of Europe as been rare according to experts. Nevertheless a reimbursement program will be put into place to reassure farmers near the reintroduction sites. The organizers are also conducting a survey to gauge public opinion about bringing lynx back to Great Britain. The first lynx to be reintroduced on private land will be monitored to collect data on their adjustment to a new environment. The information will be used to inform a decision on further re-introductions.
