A major public consultation has been launched, inviting residents of northern Scotland to share their views on a landmark proposal: the potential reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to the Highlands.
Rewilding Vision Faces Government Hurdle
The initiative is being driven by the Lynx to Scotland partnership, a coalition of rewilding charities. They argue that returning the wild cats, which were native to the area before being hunted to extinction centuries ago, could bring significant ecological benefits to the region. Their assessment suggests the landscape could eventually support a population of up to 250 lynx, which would help control deer numbers and restore natural balance.
However, the project faces a significant political obstacle. A spokesperson for the Scottish Government stated it does not intend to allow the reintroduction of lynx or other "large carnivores" in the foreseeable future, citing potential negative impacts on farms and rural communities.
Extensive Public Engagement Programme Launched
Undeterred, the partnership is pressing ahead with a substantial effort to gauge public opinion. More than 40 events are scheduled across the Highlands and Moray, with the engagement programme set to begin on 26 January 2026. Furthermore, some 89,000 households will receive information by post in January.
Steve Micklewright, Chief Executive of Trees for Life, emphasised the importance of social acceptance. "Northern Scotland can support a thriving population of lynx, but social acceptance is just as important," he said. The charity recently assisted in the reintroduction of beavers to the Highlands in November 2025.
A Cautious and Considered Approach
Any potential reintroduction would require a licence from the government agency NatureScot and would begin cautiously with a small group of around 20 animals. Lisa Chilton, CEO of Scotland: The Big Picture, highlighted the context: "Scotland has lost more of its native wildlife than almost any other country." She stressed that any move must be "considered, responsible" and address local questions and concerns thoroughly.
While the government remains sceptical about large carnivores, it expressed support for targeted species reintroductions where appropriate, referencing its backing of beaver populations.
