Introductions and Removals

While consideration is being given to reintroducing lynx in the north east and border country the recent accidental reintroduction of a lynx to the uplands of Dartmoor has been brought to an end by its recapture. I wonder how much this operation cost? Yet very few people suggested it should be left or even joined by a few more. The usual cries of agony from sections of the farming industry meant that no expense would be too great. Despite very few sheep being targetted by lynx, who like to stay in the woods, these privileged lobbyists are quick to speak out while few dare to bring up the question of sheep dying through bad practice and poor husbandry.

There's always been a tendency for humans to want to kill off wild animals either directly or by destroying their natural habitats.

Lynx were native in these islands until about 400 AD.
The wolf existed until the 16th century in England and Wales and the 18th century in Scotland.
The brown bear was here until about 1000 AD
Beavers could be found in Britain until the 16th century.

The beaver of course is now being reintroduced as a trial in Scotland and Devon. I can imagine there are shooters around anxious to have the chance to intervene if the trial is halted.

The common thread with any reintroduction of animals that once had every right to be here is the opposition from farmers. In my experience most farmers like to use their guns. The victims are often crows and rabbits, not to forget the pheasant a bird that has no native right to be here, thousands being imported (don't say 'reintroduced') each year to satisfy the shooters.

I've noticed that SRWT tweets about beavers on the River Otter where Devon Wildlife Trust are in on the project. But nothing as yet about lynx although the Scottish Wildlife Trust is supporting reintroduction. They (the Scottish WT) are, of course, a separate organisation and not part of the RSWT.