New Opinion Poll Shows Strong Public Support for Lynx Reintroduction in Scotland
Wednesday 19 February, 2025 – A new opinion poll published today reveals a significant increase in public support for the reintroduction of lynx to Scotland.
Conducted by Survation in January for the Lynx to Scotland Partnership, the poll shows that 61% of Scots are in favor of bringing back lynx, representing a rise of nine points since the last survey in 2020. This surge in support can be attributed to a growing awareness of the species and its potential benefits. In contrast, only 13% of respondents oppose the idea, a decrease of six points.
Steve Micklewright, chief executive of Trees for Life and one of the organizations involved in the partnership, stated, “This poll demonstrates that more and more Scots are in favor of lynx reintroduction, understanding that the positive impacts far outweigh any potential issues.”
The lynx, a “keystone species” that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, has been absent from Scotland for centuries. Research has shown that the Highlands has the necessary habitat to sustainably support a population of around 250 lynx. However, their reintroduction would require approval from the Scottish Government, following thorough habitat assessments and public consultation.
The elusive, forest-dwelling feline, about the size of a Labrador, primarily preys on deer and poses no threat to humans. Lynx were driven to extinction in Scotland due to hunting and habitat loss in the Middle Ages. However, other European countries have successfully reintroduced the species.
In a recent open letter to the First Minister, supported by 20 organizations, concerns were raised over John Swinney’s dismissal of lynx reintroduction at the National Farmers Union Scotland Conference. At the conference, Mr. Swinney stated, “My government will not be reintroducing lynx, or indeed any other large carnivorous species, in Scotland.”
The letter questions the First Minister’s commitment to addressing the nature emergency and highlights the potential environmental, climate, and economic benefits of reintroducing the species. It also asks why Scotland cannot coexist with lynx when other countries successfully live alongside more challenging animals such as lions and tigers. The letter also acknowledges the extensive and ongoing work of the Lynx to Scotland Partnership in addressing stakeholders’ concerns and developing strategies to manage potential issues.
Peter Cairns, head of rewilding at SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, commented, “Last month’s abandonment of lynx in the Cairngorms was reckless, and such actions are certainly not the way to reintroduce a lost species to Scotland. It is difficult to understand why this has led the First Minister to reject any proposal for the reintroduction of this important species in a responsible and well-managed manner.”
Considering the growing public support for lynx reintroduction and the efforts of the Lynx to Scotland Partnership to ensure a successful and responsible reintroduction, the First Minister’s position appears to be out of step with public opinion. The partners urge him to reconsider his stance.
The Lynx to Scotland Partnership includes SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, Trees for Life, and The Lifescape Project. For more information, please visit www.scotlandbigpicture.com/lynx-to-scotland.
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
