Lynx Project GHD – 2024–2026

LYNX CONSERVATION IN SWITZERLAND: GENETICS, HEALTH AND DEMOGRAPHY

Building on the findings of the preceding Lynx Project – GHD (2020–2023), this follow-up project will continue to gather and analyse data on the condition of the Swiss lynx population. From 2024 to 2026, public outreach and collaboration with authorities concerning lynx genetics and health will be intensified. The scientific focus lies primarily on research into connectivity between the Jura and Alpine populations, cardiovascular health, and international cooperation.

In recent years, lynx have been increasingly spreading from the Alps and the Jura into the Swiss Plateau. This development is of particular interest, as potential interbreeding between Jura and Alpine lynx could significantly improve the genetic situation. Consequently, the current project will strengthen investigations in the Swiss Plateau and deepen international collaboration.

Goals

Inform relevant authorities, stakeholders, and the public about the findings and recommendations from the previous project
Investigate the connectivity between the Jura and Alpine populations, and the colonisation of the Swiss Plateau
Evaluate and share veterinary and genetic data, and develop measures within continental European networks

Methods

The project includes the preparation of informational materials for authorities and the public, presentations, and media engagement. Veterinary and genetic sampling will be carried out on captured lynx, and individuals in the Plateau region will be fitted with radio collars. The survival of juvenile lynx will be monitored using camera traps. Together with data from the previous project, this will allow for insights into reproduction, genetics, connectivity, and habitat use of lynx in the Plateau.

In collaboration with with the French OFB and additional partners, supplementary genetic samples will be collected in potential corridors between the Alps and the Jura by gathering hair at natural marking sites. Cooperation with international partners will focus on genetic aspects (e.g., modelling a viable metapopulation), health (e.g., cardiovascular health in European populations), and demographic questions (e.g., survival rates across the entire Jura population).

GPS locations of a female lynx fitted with a transmitter as part of the first GHD project. The points cover the period from 1 January to 31 December 2023. © KORA

Project information

The lynx project – GHD is carried out in consultation with cantonal hunting inspectorates and local game wardens.

Project duration: 2024-2026

Study area: Entire Switzerland (focus on the Swiss Plateau)

Project partners health:

Dr Mirjam Pewsner, FIWI, University of Bern
Dr Iris Marti, FIWI, University of Bern
Prof Dr Regina Hofmann, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, University of Zurich

Project partners genetics:

Institute of Genetics (Prof Dr Tosso Leeb, Prof Dr Cord Drögemüller), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern
Dr Gabriela Obexer-Ruff, formerly Swissuniversities, Bern
Dr Carsten Nowak, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum, Department of Conservation Genetics

International project partners:

France: Office français de la biodiversité & Centre national de la recherche scientifique (OFB)
European expert networks: Linking Lynx, CELynx, EUROLYNX

Contacts KORA: Dr Christine Breitenmoser-Würsten (genetics) & Dr Kristina Vogt (demography

Funding: The project is financially supported by a non-profit private foundation.