Since the early 1970s, successful reintroduction programmes in France and Switzerland have already enabled the lynx (Lynx lynx) to expand its range and establish new homes.

However, despite these efforts, the limited dispersal ability of the lynx combined with the high degree of habitat fragmentation in the Alps (e.g. due to intense urbanisation across valley floors) threatens the successful re-establishment of this species in the Alps. Alpine lynx populations remain small and isolated and have already lost much of their genetic diversity (source: ELOIS). This exposes them to inbreeding problems and a reduced potential to adapt to new situations, like those presented by global warming. 

Another threat to lynx populations in the Alps is the low acceptance of the species across Alpine communities. As with other large carnivores, lynx are seen as competition for game and a threat to livestock. In reality, the threat of lynx to livestock is - on average - much smaller than perceived. In the Swiss Alps, for example, lynx were responsible for the mortality of only 0.4% of the total number of available sheep in 1999 (0.2% in 1998), much less than the number of deaths caused by other mortality factors (source: KORA).

What we do

Successful conservation of the lynx will require strong pan-Alpine coordination as no single Alpine country can support a long-term viable lynx population on its own. Through reintroduction projects and livestock protection measures, WWF is working to ensure a future for lynx in the Alps.