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Lynx sighting in the Harz: Hiker captures family in the picture!
Discover the Harz: A hike to the Brocken, rare lynx sightings and conservation successes in the national park.
Lynx sighting in the Harz: Hiker captures family in the picture!
Every year the Harz attracts numerous hiking enthusiasts who enjoy the impressive views and nature. Manfred Werner from Oberkirch, Baden-Württemberg, had a very special encounter during his hike from Schierke to Brocken. How news38 According to reports, he discovered a family of lynxes in the forest, consisting of a lynx and four cute young animals. Werner pulled out his cell phone and took a photo of this special moment, which not only thrilled him, but also underlined the importance of this discovery.
Silvester Tamás, the coordinator of the NABU lynx project in Thuringia, then confirmed the positive development of the lynx settlement in the Harz National Park. The population of Eurasian lynxes now numbers around 150 animals and shows that the lynxes are doing well. The sightings are a sign that the animals are thriving and comfortable in their habitat.
The Eurasian lynx in focus
The Eurasian lynx, the largest wild cat in Europe, can reach a length of 85 to 110 cm and is about 60 cm high at the shoulder. These striking animals weigh between 15 and 25 kg, with males being on average 15% heavier than females. What is striking are the large paws with thick hair pads, which protect the lynx from the cold in winter, as well as the retractable claws, which make it a skilled hunter. Their summer fur is reddish brown, and in winter they have a thick, white-grey fur. The appearance of the animals is characterized by a distinctive pattern of black spots, which varies depending on the region. For more interesting facts about the lynx, it's best to visit the Lynx Project in the Harz website here.
The lynxes need quiet forest areas and safe hiking trails to raise their offspring. However, the protected forest areas in the NATURA 2000 protected area network are under pressure from forestry and wood use. The challenge for conservationists remains great.
Lynx enclosure – a special experience
If you want to experience the lynxes up close, you can visit the lynx display enclosure near Bad Harzburg. There are regular public feedings there, which take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m nationalpark-harz.de reported. Admission is free and registration is not necessary, even for groups.
The enclosure landscape offers many hiding places for the animals, and a high visitor platform allows a “fence-free” view of the surrounding area. The way there leads along designated hiking trails, making the journey a natural experience.
For those who want to take it more leisurely, there is the option of using the Burgberg cable car, which saves around 200 meters in altitude. From the mountain station it is only a 60-minute walk to the lynx enclosure. The “Grüner Harzer” bus line also runs between Bad Harzburg and the enclosure from April to the beginning of November, making travel easier.
A visit to the Harz Mountains and the opportunity to experience the majestic lynxes in their natural environment should be on every excursion list. The unique wildlife and untouched nature are a real treat for young and old.