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

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

27.09.2024

Albania

#NatureLynxUs: Awareness campaign on the streets of Tirana

Since 27 September 2024, a mural dedicated to the endangered Balkan lynx has been part of Tirana's urban landscape. Painted on Vasil Shanto Primary School, one of the city's busiest intersections, the #NatureLynxUs mural combines art, conservation and community engagement to raise awareness of this critically endangered species.

Details

11.06.2024

Kosovo

Environmental Education in Kosovo

In Kosovo, BLRP partner organisation ERA is actively involved in promoting environmental education in schools, with a focus on empowering young people to practice sustainable lifestyles, for example by protecting endangered species such as the Balkan lynx.

Details