IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Borel, S.; Ryser, A.; Linhares, M.B.; Molinari-Jobin, A.; Ryser-Degiorgis, M.-P. | |
| Management of lynx orphans in Switzerland, 1981-2019: a case study | |
| 2022 Journal of Wildlife Rehabilitation (42): 7-24 | |
The management of orphaned lynx since species reintroduction in Switzerland has been very challenging, including both animal welfare and conservation issues. We analyzed data on 120 presumptive orphans (75 found alive and 45 found dead) and described the fate of live individuals taken to a wildlife care center. We assessed the following management options of free-ranging orphaned lynx, which have been successively applied in Switzerland from 1981 to 2019: placement in a zoo, culling, rehabilitation, and feeding in the wild. Out of 42 animals taken to captivity, 18 (42.9%) died before placement or release. Deaths were related to pre-existent health impairments and, in a few cases, to captivityrelated injuries. Of eight released orphans, all survived the first month, three the first year, and two reached reproduction age. Lynx orphan management has been driven by the current political situation in Switzerland. Based on this study, we can make two recommendations: 1) it is absolutely necessary to pre-establish procedures and define clear responsibilities; and 2) if the option chosen implies captivity, it is crucial to identify a suitable infrastructure in advance, with competent staff who can respond to all needs of individuals, whether for a temporary or permanent stay. |
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