Farmers urge swift action following illegal lynx release in the Highlands

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In a bold move, farming leaders in Scotland are demanding a zero tolerance policy towards wildlife criminals following the alarming illegal release of four lynxes in the Highlands. The National Farmers’ Union Scotland (NFUS) has expressed deep concern over this reckless act, which they believe could have been anticipated by their members.
Concerns over wildlife crime and accountability
NFUS President Martin Kennedy has taken the initiative to address the issue directly with government officials, including Farming Minister Jim Fairlie and Acting Climate Change Minister Alasdair Allan. In his correspondence, Kennedy emphasized the urgency of identifying those responsible for this illegal act and ensuring they face justice swiftly.
He stated, “The recent illegal release of four lynxes in the Cairngorms was a highly irresponsible act, but sadly one our members have been predicting for some time.”
Historical failures in prosecution
The union has pointed out historical prosecution failures, particularly in Tayside, where previous wildlife crimes went unpunished. Kennedy highlighted that the lack of accountability has emboldened individuals to engage in similar illegal activities, raising fears among farmers that such actions could become commonplace. He noted, “The illegal release of species onto our rural land is a wildlife crime. Those who carry out this act must be justly prosecuted.”
Impact on farming and rural communities
Farmers have voiced increasing concerns over illegal “rewilding” initiatives, which they believe undermine their rights and threaten their livelihoods. The release of beavers in Tayside back in 2006 serves as a cautionary tale, as it set a precedent for environmental groups to bypass legal processes in favor of rewilding efforts. Kennedy remarked, “The lack of sanctions against the individuals who released the beavers on Tayside, causing thousands of pounds-worth of damage, has always been a bitter pill for farmers to swallow.”
Swift action taken to recapture the lynxes
The illegal release of the lynxes captured national attention when they were first spotted in the Drumguish area on January 8. Thanks to the prompt response from staff at the Highland Wildlife Park, the animals were located and recaptured within 24 hours. However, the situation took a tragic turn when one of the recaptured lynxes died shortly after being found. All four cats were in a state of starvation when they were captured, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement against wildlife crimes.
Call for action from the government
As the NFUS continues to advocate for stronger measures against wildlife crime, they are urging the Scottish Government to allocate resources for a thorough investigation into the illegal release of the lynxes. Kennedy’s call for action reflects a growing sentiment among farmers that wildlife criminals must face consequences for their actions to deter future incidents. “Those responsible must be identified and receive sanctions,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for a clear message that illegal wildlife releases will not be tolerated.