Authorities have launched an investigation after two more lynx were sighted in the Highlands this morning, bringing a fresh twist to an ongoing case.
This follows the illegal release and subsequent capture of two lynx earlier this week.
Police are now linking these two incidents and are urging the public to stay away from the animals.
Lynx Spotted Near Kingussie
The latest sighting took place near Kingussie, in Inverness-shire, specifically in the Dell of Killiehuntly area.
Police received the report of the lynx at around 7:10 AM on Friday, January 10, 2025.
This is the same area where the first pair of lynx were found just two days ago.
Authorities are working with specialized personnel to safely capture the animals.
In their official statement, the police noted that these two sightings appear to be related to the illegal release of the first pair on January 8.
Those lynx were captured the following day, on January 9, 2025.
While the investigation continues, police are asking for any information that could help identify those responsible for releasing the animals.
Authorities Warn the Public
Police Scotland has asked the public not to approach the lynx. They are currently investigating the situation and are working with experts from Highland Wildlife Park to track and capture the animals. The public is encouraged to report any further sightings or information to the authorities by calling 101 and quoting incident number 0387.
The Capture of the First Pair of Lynx
Earlier this week, two lynx were spotted roaming freely in the Cairngorms National Park, triggering a coordinated effort to capture the animals.
Police and wildlife park staff were dispatched to the Drumguish area near Kingussie to track down the big cats.
After a night of searching, the lynx, known to prey on small mammals, birds, and livestock, were humanely captured using baited traps.
The lynx are now being taken to Edinburgh Zoo, where they will be quarantined for a month to assess their health and wellbeing.
Experts have expressed concerns about the animals’ chances of survival if they had been left to roam the wild without human intervention.
Investigation Continues into the Release
Authorities are continuing their investigation into who is responsible for releasing these animals.
Both lynx had no known connection to the Highland Wildlife Park and experts worry they would not have survived in the wild.
Further examination of the area where the lynx were found revealed straw bedding containing dead chicks and porcupine quills, which could provide crucial evidence in the investigation.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any further sightings of the lynx.
The situation remains fluid, and the authorities are working quickly to ensure the safety of both the animals and the public.