Reintroduced in 1983 in France, boreal lynx risk disappearing within thirty years, according to a scientific study published on February 13, 2023. SEBASTIEN BOZON v AFP
DECRYPTION – The largest feline in Europe suffers in particular from too little genetic diversity on French territory. The possible reintroduction of the species has sparked debate between hunters and associations.
Surprising encounters that may not happen so often. At the beginning of February, several European lynx, also called “boreal”, were seen and filmed by passers-by in the Jura and Doubs departments. These appearances, because they are fleeting and very rare, have delighted Internet users. But they also raise questions about the presence of lynx in France: is the Eurasian lynx back?
According to a study published Monday, February 13 in the journal Frontiers in Conservation Science, make no mistake: seeing these specimens is not a sign of the good health of the populations of the largest feline in Europe. On the contrary, the Eurasian lynx risk disappearing from France within thirty years. The alarming finding is the result of an in-depth scientific analysis of “90 samples collected between 2008 and 2020” on the population of the Jura. And points to this main reason: the inbreeding that rages within the species…
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