The public has been warned not to go near two lynx on the loose in the Highlands of Scotland. The big cats have been spotted in the Cairngorms with authorities believing it is likely linked to an “illegal release”.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) announced on Wednesday that the animals were at large within its grounds. The group is working alongside Police Scotland to establish what has happened as well as issuing advice to the public.
While the creatures are naturally shy around humans, people have been warned not to approach them. A spokesperson for CNPA said: “The park authority have been notified about a suspected illegal release of two lynx in the Cairngorms National Park.
“Police Scotland have been informed and are working closely with partners (including the Park Authority) to establish the full picture and take appropriate action. We condemn the illegal release of wild animals in the strongest possible terms and we are also concerned for the welfare of the lynx that have been released.
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“Whilst they are shy animals and low risk to humans, we would ask anyone who does spot a lynx not to approach nor to attend the area.” Highland Wildlife Park is assisting the park authority in tracing the animals, echoing the CNPA’s call to avoid them if seen.
A spokesperson for Highland Wildlife Park said on X: “We have been notified about the suspected illegal release of two lynx in the Cairngorms National Park. Although these are not our lynx, we are working closely with Police Scotland and partners to safely retrieve the animals.
“Whilst lynx present a low risk to humans we would ask anyone who does spot them not to approach nor to attend the area.” The animals were seen in the Drumguish area, close to Kingussie. Anyone who see them is encouraged to contact Police Scotland quoting incident 2179/08/01/25.
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