Nature & Environment

Release of two lynx in Scotland shows big cat phenomenon is alive and well

By T.K. Randall
January 9, 2025

Image: Eurasian Lynx (illustrative)
Credit: Aconcagua / CC BY-SA 3.0 (adapted) Often referred to as the 'alien big cat' (ABC) phenomenon, this long-running enigma pertains to sighings of large, unidentifiable wild cats - often resembling species such as panthers, pumas or leopards, in areas far from their native habitats.

Despite numerous sightings over the years, no conclusive evidence of breeding populations has ever been found, leading to speculation that these cats could have been released into the wild by exotic animal collectors, often due to being too expensive to keep.

While some continue to doubt whether exotic cats really are roaming the wilds of the British Isles, a recent incident in Scotland has demonstrated that this can still happen.

It began when the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) made an announcement to reveal that two lynx were on the loose in the region after being "illegally released".

"Police Scotland have been informed and are working closely with partners (including the Park Authority) to establish the full picture and take appropriate action," said a spokesperson."We condemn the illegal release of wild animals in the strongest possible terms and we are also concerned for the welfare of the lynx that have been released."

"Whilst they are shy animals and low risk to humans, we would ask anyone who does spot a lynx not to approach nor to attend the area."

Fortunately, in this particular case, both animals were quickly located and are now being looked after at a local wildlife park, but the incident does emphasize that people can and do release exotic cats into the British wilds and that sightings of such animals are not always cases of mistaken identity.

While the animals were relatively low risk in this case, if they had been something larger such as panthers or leopards, it would have been a very different story indeed.

It is also highly probable that some animals are released without authorities ever finding out about it.

Source: The Guardian

Tags: Big Cat