Return of lynx to Kielder and Scottish Borders

Eurasian lynx Credit: Lynx UK Trust

It was just over a year ago that the Lynx UK Trust announced their hopes to reintroduce Eurasian lynx to the British Isles. Now, after months of consultation, the conservationists have identified Kielder Forest, spanning Northumberland and the Scottish Borders, as their preferred site for a trial reintroduction to take place.

Lynx disappeared from UK forests around 1,300 years ago - most likely as a result of fur hunting and deforestation. It left the species at just 700 individuals across Europe by the 1940s.

Conservationists say the labrador-sized cats have a "pivotal" role in the ecosystem, controlling an unchecked deer population overgrazing UK forests.

Following reintroductions, the population has expanded to around 10,000, with the species being reintroduced successfully into countries like Germany, France and Switzerland.

Now, the Lynx UK Trust believe that the UK is an ideal candidate for the next reintroduction effort - and Kielder Forest is the best candidate because:

  • It's the largest area of continuous forest contained from sheep farming.

  • It's an economically deprived area, which could benefit from up to £15,000 profit per lynx.

  • It has low human population levels and few human barriers and threats such as roads and railways.

Consultations with regional stakeholder organisations have now begun and the Trust will host an informal event on Thursday 11th August to meet and talk with locals about the potential reintroduction.

Watch ITV Border's interview here: