Lynx could be reintroduced to Scotland to boost the ecosystem – like in France, Germany and Switzerland.
The woodland predators, which are not deemed a risk to humans, were hunted to extinction 500 years ago.
Conservationists hope releasing 400 lynx to the Highlands will lead to Scotland becoming known as “the world’s first rewilding nation”.
The wild cats will prey on deer and experts hope they will help restore nature and benefit communities as well as regenerate forests.
Lynx reintroduction will be discussed in the Scottish Parliament today in a meeting organised by rewilding charities and sponsored by Ariane Burgess MSP.
Potential reintroducing was debated there on April 20 after a motion by Kenneth Gibson received cross-party support.
MSPs, senior advisers and rural groups are to attend the event, hosted by Lynx to Scotland project partners Scotland: The Big Picture, Trees for Life and The Lifescape Project.
Dr David Hetherington will highlight how lynx successfully returned to Germany, France and Switzerland and insist they are “shy and elusive woodland hunters which pose no danger to people”.
Last year, the Lynx to Scotland project completed the first detailed research into the reintroduction, consulting stakeholders such as farmers, gamekeepers, landowners, tourism operators and rural communities in Argyll and the Cairngorms National Park.
Steve Micklewright, head of Trees for Life, said: “Scotland could become the world’s first rewilding nation but is still one of Europe’s only countries lacking large predators.
“The support or acceptance of the land management community for a well-considered, carefully managed lynx reintroduction would help deliver on commitments to restore 30 per cent of nature by 2030.”
The Lynx to Scotland project says reintroducing the species could reduce the impacts of deer browsing on woodland, boost biodiversity and restore natural processes, while helping to attract valuable tourism revenue for rural communities.
Adam Eagle, boss of The Lifescape Project, said: “Scotland has suitable habitat for lynx to prosper here.
“The return of this magnificent creature is about choices, and our willingness to live alongside other species.”
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