Harz Lynxes - The Return of the Predatory Cats

Since the year 2000, the lynx has returned to the northernmost German low mountain range through a reintroduction project in the Harz National Park. Since 2002, young lynxes have been regularly born there, and the species is now spreading significantly beyond the borders of the Harz. The Harz lynx project thus belongs to the small circle of successful lynx reintroductions in Europe. However, the future of the cat with tufted ears is by no means secure. In the small and isolated populations on the continent, inbreeding threatens. Will the lynx go extinct once again? The coordinator of the Harz lynx project, Ole Anders, reports on the successes, conflicts, and challenges in working with the tufted ears. With great perseverance, Anders, alongside his scientific work, has captured impressive images of wild lynxes using elaborate camera traps. The harsh Harz climate demands a lot from forest visitors, both with and without cameras, as the passionate photographer knows well. He has had to work hard for some images of animals and landscapes in recent years. However, the results of his efforts are impressive. A photo book published by Mitzkat Verlag illustrates the tasks of the Harz lynx project but also focuses on other animal species and takes the viewer to some of the most beautiful places in the low mountain range. The lecture is free of charge. We ask for prior registration at 05320 – 229 04 50 or in writing at shop@globetrotter-torfhaus.de.