The lynx captured the nation’s attention last January after they were abandoned in the Highlands.
Highland Wildlife Park has shared images of its three lynx frolicking(Image: RZSS)
In January 2025, the eyes of the country were on the lookout for lynx which had been abandoned in the Highlands. One year after they were found starving, keepers at their new home have said they are thriving.
The three female cats, since named Caledonia, Cardrona, and Bluebell following a competition for local school children, were spotted near Kingussie before they were successfully captured. A fourth lynx, a male, was also trapped but later died.
Together, they found a new home with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) at the Highland Wildlife Park, near Kincraig, and staff say the cats are living “happy, enriched” lives, reports BBC Scotland.
Lucy Petrie, animal operations manager at Highland Wildlife Park, said: “Their outgoing nature keeps us on our toes, and they have become a firm visitor favourite. Now that they feel at home their personalities are really starting to shine.” said
“Cardrona is the boldest of the trio, leading the way with her curious and mischievous nature. It’s unlikely the lynx would have survived for very long after they were abandoned so we’re happy to see them living happy, enriching lives at the park.
“They all enjoy chasing each other early in the morning and playfully stalking birds. Their absolute favourite spot is relaxing together on top of their house.”
Caledonia, one of the lynx illegally released in the Highlands earlier this year, at Highland Wildlife Park. (Image: Royal Zoological Society of Scotland / SWNS)
A mystery surrounds their illegal release in the Highlands and Police Scotland have said that enquiries to find the perpetrators continue.
After the first reports of lynx loose in the region broke on January 8, a three-day hunt for the cats was launched. It is believed that they were deliberately abandoned and, eventually, all four were caught – although it was too late to save the male lynx.
The BBC reports that bedding with porcupine quills in the straw was found near to where they were found could be a clue to their origin.
The Highland Council said that no premises in the area have a Dangerous Wild Animals licence so the lynx and their porcupine quill bedding probably came from elsewhere.
The three lynx were captured in January after they were illegally released in the Scottish Highlands. (Image: RZSS / SWNS)
NatureScot have also previously said that it had not granted any licences for the reintroduction of lynx..
Asked if RZSS had any theories, Ms Petrie said: “We can’t speculate on how or why the lynx were abandoned as it’s the subject of an ongoing Police Scotland investigation.
“Releasing animals into the wild without the necessary research, planning and consultation is reckless and risks harming both wildlife and local communities.”
She added: “Conservation must be guided by science, collaboration and long-term planning – not by impulsive actions, no matter how well-intentioned they may be.”
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