From Langenberg to the Wild
Hope for Europe's lynxes
The lynx enclosure at Wildnispark Zurich is one of the few in Europe where young lynx can be prepared for an independent life in the wild. Four lynx born at Wildnispark Zurich have already been released into the wild. Where are they now? And why do we need lynx from a wildlife park for the wild in the first place?
Join Vreni, Freya, Wangari and the others on their journey to freedom – and find out how the Wildnispark Zurich foundation, together with partners across Europe, is helping to better connect lynx populations once again.
Vreni → Thuringian Forest
First, it was long thought to be lost—then it was spotted twice with its young!
Vreni was the first lynx from the Wildnispark Zurich to be released into the wild. She was born in the spring of 2023. She has a twin sister named Verena.
Verena → Black Forest
Led to the first litter of lynx in Baden-Württemberg in 200 years.
Verena was born in 2023. Like her sister Vreni, whom she looks just like, she has passed all the behavioral and health tests required for release into the wild.
Freya → Saxony
The Movie Star
Freya was born in 2024. She and her twin sister Mary have the same parents as Vreni and Verena, who are a year older. Swiss television has made a documentary about Freya.
Wangari → Thuringian Forest
The Fox-Eater
In January 2025, the Wildnispark Zurich Foundation welcomed a new female breeding animal. A few months later, she gave birth to triplets – Wangari is from this litter.
One continent – many lynx populations
Europe's lynxes need to be connected.
By the end of the 19th century, the lynx had been almost completely wiped out in Western and Central Europe. The consequences of this are still felt today.
The European Breeding Program
Many Zoos, One Common Goal
To preserve the genetic diversity of endangered animal species, well-coordinated, international breeding programs are needed.
"Linking Lynx" Network
Working Together for Europe's Lynxes
A lynx knows no national borders. That is why a cross-border effort is needed to protect and support lynx populations. The “Linking Lynx” network is dedicated to this cause.
From Langnau am Albis to Hütscheroda
The Coordination Enclosure on the Outskirts of Hainich National Park
Not every lynx born in a zoo can be released into the wild. The animals' health and behavior are thoroughly assessed in advance. The lynxes must not become too accustomed to humans. At the Hütscheroda Wildcat Village (Germany), there is a special coordination enclosure that is not accessible to visitors. This serves as an important stopover for the lynx from the Wildnispark Zurich.
Please help!
We are collecting donations to support further lynx reintroductions.
Food, health checkups by the veterinarian, transport to the release site, and structural improvements to the lynx enclosure – all of this requires funding. You can support us by making a donation!
