Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme

Protect the Balkan Lynx

The Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme (BLRP) aims to restore a viable Balkan lynx population by addressing key threats. Through transboundary collaboration, research, monitoring, community engagement, policy advocacy and communication, the programme is working to improve conservation strategies, strengthen legal protection, and establish a sustainable habitat network for the species.

The Balkan Lynx

The Balkan lynx (Lynx lynx balcanicus) is one of the rarest wild cats in Europe, with fewer than 50 individuals remaining. Found in the south-western Balkans, this critically endangered subspecies faces serious threats from habitat loss, poaching and a declining prey base. Learn more about their distribution, habitat, threats, behaviour and ecology.

The Recovery Programme

The Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme is a joint collaboration of project partners working to protect the Balkan lynx. Learn more about its goals, approach, and partners.

Find out More Meet the partners

News Articles

News From Our Projects

16.06.2025

North Macedonia

Meeting in Skopje to Advance Regional Strategy for the Balkan Lynx

A key regional meeting held in Skopje, North Macedonia, in early June 2025 has brought together experts and representatives from the respective ministries from across the Balkans to work on a joint conservation strategy for the critically endangered Balkan lynx.

Details

28.05.2025

North Macedonia

New Study: First robust density estimates of the Balkan lynx in its core area

A new study published within the framework of the Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme (BLRP) provides insight into the current status of the critically endangered Balkan lynx in its core area. The study sought to answer a fundamental question: How many Balkan lynx are left in their core habitat, and how has this changed over the past decade?

Details

15.05.2025

North Macedonia

Community Outreach in Virovo

As part of its ongoing conservation work, the Balkan Lynx Recovery Programme (BLRP) organises community outreach activities in regions where the elusive Balkan lynx roams. One such event took place in May 2025 in the village of Virovo, nestled in the Mountain range in North Macedonia.

Details

13.04.2025

North Macedonia

BLRP Collars New Lynx Named Zora

In early April 2025 a healthy adult female lynx was captured in North Macedonia and fitted with a GPS collar for scientific monitoring.

Details