ABUNDANCE

The number of lynx in Switzerland can be estimated based on the results of camera trap surveys conducted in the different reference areas. Each monitoring winter, three to four of the 12 reference areas are surveyed. The lynx density determined within suitable habitat in the reference areas is then extrapolated to the suitable habitat of the permanently occupied area of the respective sub-compartment. In each case, the density estimate from the most recent survey cycle is considered. Whether an area is permanently occupied by lynx is evaluated based on the deterministic monitoring data as well as data collected by the cantons and private individuals.

In sub-compartments without a reference area, the estimate is based on the number of lynx photographed during the reporting year within the framework of opportunistic camera trap monitoring. Subsequently, the population sizes of the individual sub-compartments are added together to estimate the total number of lynx in Switzerland (see methods section).

The resulting population estimate therefore does not represent a snapshot in time, but is based on the most recent monitoring data available for each sub-compartment. According to the latest monitoring reports, in the biological year 2024/2025 there were 364 (± 10) independent lynx (subadults and adults, i.e. lynx older than one year) in Switzerland, of which 86 (± 6) were in the Jura, 246 (± 9) in the Alps and 32 (± 3) in Northeast Switzerland.

Depending on the season, between 15 and 30% of the year’s juveniles may still remain with their mother. Juveniles are not included in the population estimates, as they are subject to very high mortality (only one in four reaches adulthood).