Distribution and status of lynx in the border region between Czech Republic, Germany and Austria

This paper summarizes available information concerning the presence of the Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx Linneaus, 1758 in the Sumava Mountains and adjacent areas along the common border of Czech Republic, Germany and Austria. Our data give an overview of the lynx population occupying the border region between the three countries from 1990 to 1999. We estimated population size using radiotracking data. From 1990 to 1998, population increased from under 20 to nearly 70 resident animals. During this time, reproduction increased as well, with a maximum of 55 kittens observed in the rearing period of 1998 to 1999. Mortality data indicated that illegal hunting was widespread. Our paper discusses possible links with other lynx populations and describes the legal status of lynx in the three different countries. Current manage­ment approaches are outlined and steps toward a long-term conservation plan for the population are proposed.