Video traps recorded lynxes living in the mountains near Bielsko-Biała

"We have been monitoring lynx in the Silesian Beskids for 10 years. During that time we have recorded the predators in a number of places, most often in the area of Barania Góra and Skrzyczne. Now video traps have recorded them in the Wapienica valley. This proves that young animals leave their home territories and start their own families farther north" - says Dr. Mysłajek in an interview with PAP.

According to the researcher, cameras have recorded two lynxes in the Wapienica valley. "We have tracked them and we know that they have settled in the area" - he added. The "Bielsko" lynxes can be seen online at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ichHApG1xEs

Mysłajek emphasises that although the Wapienica valley is often visited by walkers due to its location near a city, an encounter with a lynx is unlikely. "Do not think that they live near the city. We have spotted them high in the mountains, in less accessible places where people do not tread" - he says.

According to the naturalist, at least four adult animals live in the Silesian Beskids, including two breeding females. "We know that because video traps have recorded females with young on several occasions" - he says.

Lynx is a predatory mammal from the felidae family. Its population in Poland is estimated at approx. 300 individuals. An adult lynx measures 100 to 150 cm in length. It stands 60–75 cm at the shoulder. Individuals, except females with young, lead a lonely life. Lynx have large hunting areas, which reach 100-140 square kilometres in the mountains. In Poland, they are under strict protection.

The Association for Nature WOLF was founded in 1996. Its headquarters are in Twardorzeczka at the foot of Skrzyczne. Its mission is the protection of nature, in particular the activities for predatory mammals - wolf, lynx, bear, otter, badger and other species. Its members conduct research and educational activities. (PAP)

author: Marek Szafrański

szf/ agt/ kap/

tr. RL