Bid to reintroduce lynx to Britain rejected by Government

A bid to bring back the lynx, which became extinct in the UK more than 1,000 years ago, has been rejected by the Government.

By The Newsroom Tuesday, 4th December 2018, 5:32 pm Updated Tuesday, 4th December 2018, 5:40 pm

A bid to bring back the lynx, which became extinct in the UK more than 1,000 years ago, has been rejected by the Government. Picture: PA Wire

Lynx UK Trust applied for a licence for a trial reintroduction of six Eurasian lynx, which it says disappeared from Britain around the year 700AD, into Kielder Forest in Northumberland to recreate a more natural ecosystem.

The cats were lost from much of western Europe in the face of the destruction of its habitat and persecution by humans but they have been successfully reintroduced in some countries.

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Environment Secretary Michael Gove has written to the trust informing it he has accepted Government conservation agency Natural England’s advice not to grant a licence for the scheme.

Mr Gove said the Government remained committed to the reintroduction of once-native species when there are “comprehensive proposals” and clear environmental, social and economic benefits.

Natural England had concerns about the feasibility of the project, including how it would be funded and a reliance on volunteers, he said.

The application did not include an ecological assessment providing assurances the area was suitable for a reintroduction and did not demonstrate sufficient engagement with landowners or local support.

In his letter, Mr Gove said: “Kielder Forest is an area where the Forest Commission has been taking action to manage and restore important habitats and ecosystem functions to enhance biodiversity.

“This has included the release of hundreds of water vole and the removal of mink from the Tyne and monitoring the return and spread of pine martens to understand options for their recovery.

“The area has also seen significant recolonisation by a number of bird species as a result of continued efforts, all of which is positive news.”

He said he hoped the trust could support the need to undertake the reintroduction of species in a “considered manner”, which could positively contribute to the natural system of the area and ensure maximum benefits to the local environment and people using it.

Supporters of reintroducing lynx believe the cats would bring a range of benefits, including helping to control deer numbers, reducing damage to the forest and improving habitat for smaller animals, as well as providing eco-tourism opportunities.

Opponents, such as the National Sheep Association (NSA), have raised concerns about the potential impacts, including losses of livestock and the welfare of the wild animals released into the “busy, industrial forest”.

NSA chief executive Phil Stocker said: “We strongly believe this is the right decision on ecological, social and agricultural grounds.

“Today’s victory is not just for farmers but for the ecology of the area, the rural community and the farming economy.