Happy International Lynx Day 2025!

On June 11th, we celebrate the International Lynx Day. On this important day, we honour one of the most emblematic and elusive inhabitants of the Carpathian Mountains — the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). As a keystone species, the lynx plays a crucial role in preserving the ecological balance of the Carpathian forests and is a powerful indicator of healthy, interconnected ecosystems.

Found across the Carpathian region, this majestic predator stands as a symbol of the region’s biodiversity and the necessity of cross-border cooperation in nature conservation. The Carpathian Convention is actively engaged in efforts to protect lynx habitats, promote ecological connectivity, and foster human–large carnivore coexistence.

One key initiative supporting these goals is the Interreg LECA project (Carpathian LargE CArnivores), which places a strong focus on the Eurasian lynx. The project contributes to effective species conservation and management by improving knowledge about population distribution, abundance, and trends — crucial for conflict prevention and informed decision-making.

The LECA project addresses this gap by introducing a consistent and efficient monitoring approach that actively involves local stakeholders. It will result in up-to-date population data, coupled with effective conflict prevention measures — ensuring a more science-based and coordinated approach to conservation.

The duration of this project is:

April 2023 – March 2026.