HI All

This is an incredibly important post about a legal action that will determine the future of meaningful habitat restoration and rewilding in the UK. We have initiated a judicial review against Natural England and the Secretary of State, Emma Reynolds, because they are refusing to review our current lynx license application or indeed any future one. They are claiming that they cannot grant a lynx license to anyone now or at any time, as it would breach the Dangerous Wildlife Animal, Act (DWAA). Out legal team, Richard Buxton Solicitors and barrister, Richard Turney KC, strongly disagree and have lodged the legal papers for a Judicial Review. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 which was passed after the DWAA, makes provisions for the release of previously native animals. Our team believe that Natural England’s position is untenable.

This legal action arises from a contradiction between Natural England's leadership and the organization’s current policy. Tony Juniper, Head of Natural England, has publicly expressed support for the reintroduction of lynx, suggesting it could occur within two years. Despite these statements, Natural England has stated that it will not review any licensing applications for lynx reintroduction. It is a ridiculous situation but with very serious consequences that must be overcome.

Public sentiment strongly favours the reintroduction of lynx, with numerous surveys indicating widespread support for this initiative. However, Natural England's stance raises questions about the consistency and legality of their position. They are simply blocking any application progression. As it stand there is no legal route to reintroduce lynx. 

The DWAA stance taken by Natural England, not only blocks lynx reintroduction effort but also blocks Rewilding efforts involving species such as bison, wolves, aurochs, bears, and moose. None of these can be released into the wild.

It prevents the UK from ever having apex predators or mega herbivores ever again, both of which are key ecosystem engineers.

We are now getting into the nitty gritty. We will have to fight in the courts. There is simply no other way. This is a pivotal legal challenge that will determine the future of Rewilding efforts in the UK. 

 If you believe that the UK needs to have healthy, functioning ecosystems and that lynx need to return, then we urge you to support our legal challenge. You can do so at this link:

https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/bring-back-the-lynx/

Thanks as always for your support. This is a battle that we simply have to win.

Very best wishes

Paul

Dr Paul O’Donoghue

Director Lynx UK Trust