Lynx in France face extinction with population down to 150 adults at most

Young Eurasian lynx. In France the lynx population has a level of genetic diversity equivalent to only 38 animals. Photograph: Arterra Picture Library/Alamy

Conservationists warn that a big cat population in Europe is destined to collapse unless immediate efforts are made to protect the animals.

Researchers estimate there are 120 to 150 adult lynxes in France. Tests on the animals show that the cats’ genetic diversity is so low they will become locally extinct within the next 30 years unless there is urgent intervention.